July/August 2012 Vol. XXXII, No. 6
Holy Spirit Missionary Sisters
We hold the inner space of our lives open for God’s Spirit to guide us in the direction of nonviolent and liberating action and dialogue. (adapted from Nancy
Sylvester, IHM)
P
rovince Day this year was entitled, Moving Forward in Hope. Fifty-six SSpS participated in the day’s program which began with a little skit about going on a journey. It emphasized how much baggage we can and can’t take along and how we need an up-to-date map or GPS (sign of the times) and willing drivers (participative leadership). We used the metaphor of being on a journey and a car motif as a creative way to engage everyone in serious and timely conversation about religious missionary life in our Province and to explore vocations to our community. The presentations and discussion of the day centered around: 1) The history of religious life in the USA, our own vocation story (looking through a rear-view mirror) and the film, Women Spirit. 2) Naming our current Province reality honestly (present location). 3) Understanding newer members: Who are they? What are they looking for and needing? 4) Concrete, creative and courageous next steps (taking our foot off the brake). As a follow up to the Province Days: The creative, concrete and courageous suggestions for moving forward that came out of the wisdom gathered from the day have been given over to a volunteer committee who will work with Sr. Elwira Dziuk to bring the suggestions to life. (continued on page 2)