Sister Mary David Mulroy, SFP
Christ Is Alive . . . Sr. Karen Hartman offers prayers for the earth
Rose Aleman, Director of Young Adult Services,
speaks of young adult efforts and future offerings.
The Sisters of our new Philippines mission. L to R: Srs. Maria Atorino, Armida Sison, Cristina Di Nocco.
Archbishop Daniel Pilarczyk at April 17th Solemn Vespers – First Session of the Diocesan Inquiry into the Cause of Blessed Frances.
Jubilate Deo! Srs. Tiziana and Joanne with our Jubiliarians. L to R standing: Srs. Mary Lawrence Vanderburg, Josetta Lonnemann, Beth Rindler, Mary Maloney. L to R seated: Srs. Ann Cecile Albers, Betty Igo.
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When we begin an Assembly, there's always a lot happening, so much so that the uninformed might be reminded of “the confusion of Babel!" But all the noise is an expression of Joy: the happiness of seeing one another again; the prospect of spending three days together; and the hope that what we discuss, do and resolve will bring us closer together as daughters of Blessed Mother Frances.
As we processed into the Conference Room, we walked among stars, the moon hung low on the side wall, and Blessed Frances, in the center of it all, 'held' a rainbow that cascaded down to a beautiful bouquet of flowers. We opened the Assembly with prayer designed to help us generate compassion and hope: we sang Christ Is Alive, prayed for the earth, the universe, the galaxies…we gave thanks to all peoples of the world, especially to Jesus.
“Our Assembly theme . . . not only further developed the Chapter Directive, but meaningful reading material was presented prior to the Assembly as well. I do not recall any other Chapter Direction Statement with such an impact!” Sr. Marilyn Fischer
Sr. Joanne spoke of Hope, urged us to remember who we are, and turned our thoughts to where we want to go -- and how we'll get there. She began with a story about an African custom of composing a special song for each newborn, and ended by saying, "… we, too, have a song we have been singing since the Congregation was born of trust in Divine Providence, and our 'song' expressed in our daily prayer: Providence can provide. Providence will provide. Providence did provide!" After her inspiring talk, we had time for sharing -- which was very animated if sheer volume is any measure!
“I appreciated Joanne’s talk relating to our song about Providence: I would like to hear of some experience that we have had about Providence providing in our current life experiences!” Sr. Bonnie Steinlage
Sr. Tiziana then updated us on what is happening within each of the areas of the Congregation... and the most exciting decision to open a new mission in the Philippines. Srs. Maria Atorino, Cristina Di Nocco and Armida Sison, who will be the first sisters there, were among us. Sr. Tiziana also spoke of our unity as a Congregation, and challenged us to live out our vision of hope. Following her remarks, she took questions and gave answers that covered all she said - and more!
We reconvened after lunch to hear Gloria Leigh speak about the “Community of Life.” In essence, she said we should follow Jesus' example of LOVE and COMPASSION as we journey through life. Following Ms. Leigh's speech, we discussed the book we received prior to the Assembly, Where the Pure Water Flows: The New Story of the Universe and Christian Faith. While I must say that the discussion wasn’t too lively, we did see the relationship between 'the new story' and Franciscan thinking.
We ended the day with Mass at 4 P.M…but there was more to come! In the evening, the Archbishop celebrated Solemn Vespers and the Opening Session of the Diocesan Inquiry for the Canonization of Mother Frances -- for which I have no words, only wonder, awe and -- overwhelming joy!
Saturday we heard from our 'new' Director of Young Adult Services, Rose Aleman. She told us about the garden project and the many services we will offer as soon as the Barn's renovations are complete. Her presentation was followed by reports from various committees. After lunch we had a lively discussion about the need for someone devoted to on-going membership development, and Sr. Joanne presented us with an Organizational Chart of the U.S. Area. Then we toured the Barn to see how the renovations were proceeding, and, in the evening, Sr. Tiziana presented a beautiful PowerPoint/Scriptural rendition of Judy Cannato's book, Radical Amazement.
Sunday morning was packed: we began with 'The Circle of Life', starting with updates on various matters and ending with a vigorous discussion of the Bishops' recent letter regarding the practice of Reiki.
Then it was time to celebrate! During a beautiful Mass, our dear Jubilarians -- Srs. Ann Cecile Albers (50 years), Betty Igo (60 years), Josetta Marie Lonnemann (60 years), Mary Maloney (60 years), Beth Rindler (60 years) and Mary Lawrence Vanderburg (60 years) -- renewed their vows. It was a Joyful Mass of Thanksgiving for 350 Years of dedicated Service done in the Charism of Blessed Frances Schervier. Sisters, family members, associates and friends all joined us after mass for a festive, loving feast -- and all-too-soon good-byes! Alleluia!!!!
Click here to enjoy a photo essay of our Jubilarians!
In gratitude to Sr. Arlene McGowan for the fine photography. |
