A beautiful day at Quonnie over the Labor Day weekend became the setting for a conversation in response to the article by Sandra Schneiders that was a suggested “summer read.” Eight of us from six different local communities entered easily and trustingly into a sharing of experiences of transition, challenge, and hope inherent in religious life in the present and in the years since Vatican II. The sharing was personal and rich, the listening was open and deep, the attitude was compassionate and supportive. Also, it served as a link between the summer reflection with Nancy Sylvester and the “Sabbath Sharing’s” that will unfold amongst us in the coming months. Our take-home commitment was two-fold: (1) the need for continued reliance on the Holy Spirit, and (2) focus on being our most pure self. Thus do we hope to meet, survive, and thrive in the ongoing challenge of renewal in contemporary religious life.
Let us remember with gratitude the 50 years of CND courageous and committed life and ministry in the mission of Guatemala. We rejoice with the sisters, associates and others in the Región Nuestra Seňora de Guadalupe at this time. One expression of our concrete solidarity and joy during these anniversary celebrations will be the presence of Sisters Mary Corbett, Lorraine Costello, Joan Lewis, Paula Maher and Maura McGrath who ministered in Central America. We wish them a blest, joyous and safe journey. The following words by one of the “journeyers” gives us pause for proclaiming the greatness of God!
“I see this moment as a significant time of support, affirmation and celebration of the Central American women who have chosen to cast their lot among us. When I see who they have become, in their challenges and struggles--yes!--but also in the leadership they have assumed and exercise in such strength and capacity, this seems like a moment to celebrate and honour that.”
Associate relationship is alive and well in Visitation Province. That was very evident as 40+ sisters and associates gathered at Villa Consolata, Howe Island for their annual reflection weekend. This year, the theme picked up from Sister Josephine Badali’s circular inviting all of us to reflect together on Evangelii Gaudium (The Joy of the Gospel) “with a Visitation Heart.” Through prayer, wonderfully prepared input, silence, small group sharing, Sunday Eucharist, delicious food and plenty of time for informal conversation with one another, we wondered how - in the years ahead - we can allow that joy to map out ‘new paths’ for our journey as Visitation people. I for one rejoice in and celebrate the shared gifts of sisters and associates, and it was clear that the relationship between us is alive and active. Congratulations and gratitude to those who made this weekend possible.