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November 28, 2022, Washington, D.C. – Sister Donna Markham, OP, PhD, addressed members of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) during its annual assembly on November 15, 2022, for a final time as President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA (CCUSA). The first female to head CCUSA, Sister Donna announced recently that she will retire next year.

CCUSA is a network of agencies through the United States that address the needs of vulnerable people. Sister Donna told the U.S. Bishops that her goal was to "help this ministry become more financially stable and nimble as the entire Catholic Charities network responds to increasing demands to care for growing numbers of disaster victims, migrants, homeless folks, hungry people, mentally ill, addicted people, and families and children in precarious socio-economic situations."

Sister Donna, Prioress of the Adrian Dominican Congregation from 2004 to 2010, spoke not only of the needs of people throughout the United States and in territories such as Puerto Rico, but of the generosity of individuals, corporations, and foundations in helping CCUSA agencies meet those needs. 

"It’s important for you to tell the story of the Catholic Church’s response in this country to people who reside along the margins of our society, the very most fragile, the most vulnerable – to be able to say this is where our Church puts the Gospel into action," Sister Donna said. "It’s where Matthew 25 comes alive palpably every day across the entire country."

Watch the video of Sister Donna’s address.

By Madelyn Birmingham - Content Writer, Siena Heights University

November 28, 2022, Adrian, Michigan – The Siena Heights University Department of Music returns to Holy Rosary Chapel on the Motherhouse Campus of the Adrian Dominican Sisters for the annual Service of Lessons and Carols at 5:00 p.m. Sunday, December 4, 2022. 

The traditional Festival of Lessons and Carols is a Christian service of Scripture and song that dates to the late 19th century. Included are nine Scripture lessons, each followed by a carol or other song that reflects the lesson’s message, as well as a brief prayer. 

“This has become a powerful tradition in the Adrian community each year,” said Kelly Ford, Director of Choirs. “Our attendance grows each year, and we now have a packed house to join in our singing and prayer. It’s a perfect way to start your holiday season!”

The service includes University Chorale, Chamber Singers, and members of the Siena Heights University Brass Ensemble. Admission is free and the event is open to the public. Doors will open at 4:30 p.m. and the concert will last approximately one hour. Masks are required.

For more information, contact Shelley Holly at 517-264-7890 or through facebook.com/shuchoir.

Siena Heights University is a Catholic university founded and sponsored by the Adrian Dominican Sisters. A coeducational North Central accredited institution founded in the liberal arts tradition, the university is headquartered in Adrian, Michigan, with degree completion centers throughout the state.