Become an Associate

The inaugural gathering of Associate area coordinators and directors from the Atlantic-Midwest and the Central Pacific Provinces occurred Sept. 18 via Zoom. The purpose was to provide mutual support, share successes and challenges, and enjoy fellowship.

As we approach Indigenous People’s Day on October 13, you may wish to share the story of Black Elk with your community or family and offer his prayer: Great Spirit, Creating Love, we are made in Your image and likeness...

Did you know that while there are 10 American Saints and 9 Americans who have been Beatified by the Vatican, none of them are Black? I only became aware of this three years ago when Associate Dolores Moore shared with the Dismantling Racism Committee that members of her parish, St. Anne’s in Baltimore, had come together to elevate awareness of six Black Americans whose lives exemplify holiness and virtue.

I’ve been an Associate since 1990 – so that will be 35 years this coming October. I became an Associate after I had first considered becoming an SSND Sister. I have greatly appreciated all the opportunities that the province has provided, especially in recent years, to encourage me to spiritual growth, to expand my understanding of key issues in the world and to respond/act as I am able.

On November 2 Maryland Associates engaged in a morning of reflection as Sister Sharon Kanis led us in the retreat “Reflecting On Our Commitments In Light Of The Call.”  In an afternoon prayer service, we celebrated the first covenant of three women and the re-covenating of 26 Associates.  A reception with Sisters and families followed the prayer service.

There are ample reasons to feel self-protective, guarded, and defended in our lives today, and an abundance of events and dynamics that trigger our fears and angers. How can we make the choice - again and again - to welcome the one we encounter as a fellow human?