Madonna University and Felician Tradition of Service

By Raymond Rolak

Traditions of Felician Service Started by Blessed Mary Angela Truszkowska Continues

LIVONIA-- The family style Polish dinner brought forth fond memories of traditions imprinted from Busia and past holiday celebrations. The festive Polish music, decorations, entertainment and Tyskie Polish piwa had everyone enjoying the “Be Polish for a Night” at Madonna University.

This was the second year for “Be Polish for a Night” at the Laurel Manor which also showcased a well received silent auction. The auction committee highlighted the spacious ballroom with Polish art and colorful decorations. The Polish Museum of America based in Chicago donated informative posters for display and auction. Over 120 other entities donated goods and services to help the scholarship benefit.

The Felician Sisters of North America have their Motherhouse in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania near Pittsburg. The congregation has had a long history of ministering and educating in the greater Detroit area. In the field of higher education the Felician’s also operate Villa Maria College in Buffalo and the Felician College of New Jersey. The order has eight Provinces in North America and the rich history of their service dates back to 19th century Poland.

The President of Madonna University, Sr. Rose Marie Kujawa, CSSF, gave a short welcome and with heartfelt thanks highlighted Robert and Eleanor Bielenda and Wallace and Joan Ozog for their ambassadorial support. Sr. Kujawa also reminded everyone that this is the 75th anniversary of Madonna University and the Felician-Franciscan tradition in Livonia.

The night had the musical offerings of the Duane Malinowski Band and visuals of the Polanie Song and Dance Ensemble. Polanie choreographer Christine Kryszko explained the costumes and presentations.

The committee for the occasion consisted of Linda Baffy, Dom Casinelli, Laurie Gamulka, Barb Martin-Godlewski, Denise Kulas, Dave Kwiecinski, Frank Pawelak and Dave Rekuc. Other events in the series of 75th Anniversary celebrations are the upcoming Bowling for Scholars on May 18, The Main Campus Birthday Party on September 22, and the 75th Anniversary Closing Liturgy on November 18.

The event was coordinated by the Office of Advancement at Madonna University, 734-432-5740.
www.madonna.edu