VOL. XIV, NO. 1
AUGUST 2008
2008 Associates Day was a silver celebration By John Little, OSUA
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Dream…A Vision…A Reality. In 1983, the Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph embarked on an exciting opportunity to invite laity and clergy to join in their quest to continue the mission of Saint Angela Merici. The Ursuline Associates started out with humble beginnings, but 25 years later, more than 400 women and men throughout the world have joined them. On July 19, approximately 174 Ursuline Associates and Sisters came together at Mount Saint Joseph to celebrate 25 years of ministry together. The day began with prayer and song. This was followed by a presentation written by Sister Cheryl Clemons titled, “Scrapbooks, Lighthouses, and Spaceships.” Due to the death of Sister Cheryl’s father, Sister Michele Morek and Marian Bennett offered the presentation. The inspirational presentation focused on the writings of Saint Angela, who challenged the community members in her time (and each of us today) to live in harmony. Saint Angela said we were not to have discord (“the deadly plague”), but instead must take our differences and live in concord, which involves a spirit of charity and peace. After the talk, several participants took the opportunity to reflect on the words and challenges of Saint Angela. The afternoon session was highlighted by a special ceremony that recognized the eight women who have served as directors of the Ursuline Associate program during the past 25 years. All of the directors were present. They are: Sister Fran Wilhelm, Sister Mary Lois Speaks, Sister Elaine Burke, Sister Marie Bosco Wathen, Sister Marita Greenwell, Cecilia McEldowney, Sister Marietta Wethington, and Marian Bennett. This was followed by a presentation showing the events that have been planned, or are in the planning stages, for the upcoming year as we begin the next 25 years. The day ended with Mass celebrated by Fr. Tony Shonis, which included a ceremony for those making their temporary and lifetime commitments as Ursuline Associates. New Dreams…New Visions…New Realities. God has blessed the Ursuline community and those of us who have been connected to them through this wonderful relationship. What the Spirit has in store for the future is unknown, but God will lead us to new wonders and opportunities of spreading the vision of Saint Angela and the Good News. If you know of anyone who wants to be a part of the next 25 years, please have FIRST commitment class – The eight people who made their first commitments him or her call the Office of Ursuline on July 19: (Front row, l-r), Jean Murphy, Jerry Birge, and Mag Birge; (Back row) Helen Partnerships at 270-229-2006. n Kanter, Karen Siciliano, Paul Parker, Nancy Mills, and Betty Stone.