I was taught by the Felician Sisters from grammar school through high school at St Joseph’s parish in Camden, NJ. All the sisters I encountered had a definite impact.
Sr. Theresine taught me physics and encouraged me to go into engineering. Sr. Louis, who taught me Chemistry, was instrumental in my decision to major in chemical engineering.
In grade school, I used to serve early Mass. The entrance to the sacristy was across the yard from the convent door. One day Sr. Franchetta opened the door and bent down to get the newspaper. It was cold and windy, and Sister’s veil blew off. I stood staring until sister told me to help her catch her veil. I tried to catch that veil in the wind. Sister laughed so hard she had tears in her eyes. This made me laugh as well, but I persisted and finally caught that veil. Sister thanked me for helping to start her day with a smile. Every time I saw her after that, she always gave a smile and a wave. I guess she taught me about the humanity of the sisters.
I have so many fond memories of Felicians. In first grade we had 60 kids, and Sr. Joseph never raised her voice but miraculously kept us engaged. I’m sure she is a saint today.
The sisters were a big part of my education, work ethic and sense of duty. I served for 25 years in the Air Force and was promoted to the rank of Colonel. Any success I had was built on the foundation that the Felician Sisters built.
-Arthur (Art)
