Circle of Life on the Congregation's Strategic Plan
Sisters, Associates and friends sharing a prayer and a song. Sr. Mariapia is at far left.
We met at St. Francis Convent in Warwick NY on November 7th -- a beautiful autumn day filled with both the splendor of nature’s colors and the welcoming spirit of the Sisters. We gathered to welcome Sr. Joanne Schuster and to convene a 'Circle of Life' to discuss the Congregation's Strategic Plan as it impacts the U.S. Area. After a brief welcome and “coffee,” we came together in the convent chapel for Mass celebrated by our Associate, Father McAndrew.
We remained in the chapel and Sister Joanne opened the meeting by welcoming everyone. We also took a moment to extend a special welcome to our Italian Sister, Sr. Mariapia Iammarino, who is currently in the U.S. Area. Sr. Joanne explained that as a transfer to another Area, the Sister participates in all aspects of the Area, but may not “hold any office,” (e.g., local minister or finance coordinator. )
Associate Joan Roche enjoys the Thanksgiving bird. (Sr. Mary is at left.)
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We reviewed the Congregational Strategic Plan, highlighting the ways in which we have already started to implement the action plans. Sr. Joanne welcomed questions and comments, and then shared pertinent information relating to the other three Areas and their implementation of the Plan. • The topics of youth and how we can be involved with young adults, as well as encourage vocations, and enhance both community and communications surfaced - and were followed by interesting discussions. • There were many challenges about how to deepen our understanding of our Chapter Direction especially around the community of life. Sr. Mariapia contributed to the discussion by noting that in Italy they begin each meeting by talking about some aspect of the meaning of “community of life.” We had a break -- with time devoted to reflection and visiting -- and even more time for visiting and enjoying a leisurely Thanksgiving dinner—complete with the whole drumstick and all the trimmings. We then reconvened, and Sr. Joanne gave us updates on the Apostolic Visitation and Mother Frances' Canonization process -- and then again welcomed our further comments. There was much discussion on how to stimulate better community life and communications. Sr. Joanne challenged each of us to discuss the “elements of community,” how we can improve it, and to share it with the larger group. In regard to communication, Sisters remarked that Sr. Joanne’s e-mail updates are well received, and they asked her to send them on a regular basis. Some Sisters and associates asked for copies of the U.S. Area Brochure to distribute in their Parishes. We concluded with the Circle sharing a prayer and song. Our good byes included “See you December 12th as we celebrate the feast of Mother Frances”-- on a beautiful winter SNOW-FREE day - we hope! - Sister Margie Ferri, with Sisters and Associates |
