Well, our ship is in port, preparing for the next phase of our journey. The ship is in good condition. It has been recently serviced in Cornwall where it was found to be a very sturdy vessel. During many, many years of sailing, work has been done periodically to preserve the essentials and to constantly renew what was needed to respond to the reality of the times. The various crews over the years have proven to be excellent leaders and have acted to ensure that Marguerite’s Congregation continues to embrace her spirit and to reach out to answer the needs of our time, especially to bring the love of God to all.
The Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) Core Committee (Visitation Province of the Congregation of Notre Dame) met at the mother house October 21-24. The Committee reviewed the work of the past year and set priorities for upcoming months. We had a report from the recent General Chapter and discussion around what JPIC can do to further Chapter Directions and support the new Leadership Team. We reviewed (briefly) the story of our Visitation JPIC up to now, and made efforts to vision how best to move forward from here. On Monday, October 24th, we met with the Province Administration Team to share with members what we see as strengths, challenges, questions, hopes and possibilities. We continue to be involved, with similar groups and organizations, in the topics outlined on our promotion card, with emphasis on the areas of Eco-Justice and Economic Justice.
This was the theme of the three-day retreat we were fortunate to have with Sister Becky McKenna, CND, on October 17-19. We had three days in May with Sister Becky and this "Triduum" completed our annual retreat. With beautiful visuals, inspiring music, opportunities for creative expression, appropriate handouts and profound reflections, Sister Becky led us through a meaningful spiritual journey. We were reminded that we must be like the autumn leaves and learn to "let go." This letting go brings about transformation into new life. In keeping with that Year of Mercy, our call to receive and extend mercy was also highlighted. Sister Becky's parting gift was a little bag for each of us containing three symbols: a maple leaf (letting go), a butterfly (transformation) and a heart (mercy). We are most grateful for this wonderful retreat experience.