August 12-21 went surprisingly quickly for the seven associates who attended the first ten days of the General Chapter. Representing each of our provinces/regions and the Central Office, the associates were an integral part of the process. Together with the 65 sisters, they prayed, discussed and interacted in the development of our Congregation of Notre Dame orientations for the next five years.
An American linden tree was planted at the mother house to commemorate the 35th Anniversary of Associate Relationship. It replaced a diseased tree and will provide food for butterflies, bees, and birds.
In our Blessed Sacrament Province, several associates have planted special bushes and flowers at their homes. The Associates of North Carolina are in the process of planting a ‘Marguerite Prayer Garden’ on their Church property. In Pensacola, the associates planted a lemon tree. Sr. Marilyn Doucette was with them for their renewal of commitment and lemon tree planting on June 12. Sr. Marilyn ministered in Pensacola before serving for six years as the Co-coordinator of Associate Relationship at the Central Office in Montreal. This is how Sr. Marilyn described the event.
Congratulations to Sr. Betty Kehoe who was honored by Catholic Charities of OKC as "religious of the year." The award was presented by Sister Donna Markham, O.P. Sister Donna is the first woman President and CEO of Catholic Charities, USA.
