From March 28 to April 12, 2016, upon an invitation from Sister Kyoko Terashima, the author of this text met with the teachers and directors of the teaching establishments of the Congrégation de Notre-Dame in Japan as well as the sisters and associates. In Fukushima, Kita Kyushu (Tobata) and Tokyo (Chofu), he gave six presentations of a conference entitled Marguerite Bourgeoys, 1620-1700. Liberating Education for Everyone, Everywhere. The presentation was given in English with simultaneous Japanese translation graciously provided by Sister Terashima. During this period, accompanied by Sister Mary Gillis, he visited Nagasaki, the birthplace of Christianity in Japan.
The Ignatian Centre of Montreal sponsored a workshop given by Philip Chircop, sj at Loyola High School. Friday evening and all day Saturday, 55 grateful people (including Peg and Carl Madigan, Maura McGrath, Kay Duffin and myself) listened, reflected and prayed together in an atmosphere more like a retreat than a workshop. The theme: Practicing Mercy. Scripture passages (especially Luke 15), quotes from Pope Francis, inspirational music and periods of silence all combined to nourish our minds, hearts and spirits. The Eucharistic celebration which brought our time together to a close was especially moving. We were sent forth, as were the disciples on the first Pentecost, to share the good news of our God, ”Whose name is Mercy.”
Avanti! What a treasure is this newest booklet from LCWR! It took me some time to move beyond the 4 questions at the beginning, getting lost in my own answers before reading what the contributing writers offered for reflection. All the pieces are honest, hopeful, positive and inclusive. My favorites are p.17-19 - Drawn Forward and p.39- Let’s Go! The illustrations add to the depth of the content. Thanks so much to our Leadership Team for providing this resource for us.
