As COVID-19 restrictions had eased earlier this summer, members of the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary-Eastern American Area were fortunate to be able to gather in-person for their Convocation at Marymount Convent in Tarrytown, NY. The Convocation’s theme, “Everything is Gift; All is Grace,” was inspired by Pope Francis’ homily for the World Day of Consecrated Life in 2020.
Sr. Catherine Patten, outgoing area leader, welcomed all to the Convocation. Reflecting on the homily, and in particular the story of Anna and Simeon, she noted how the couple had “…such fidelity, such hope, such openness to the Spirit, that they were able to receive the gift of recognition. Francis says: ‘Knowing how to see grace is the starting point.’ The gift of recognition. May we all receive that gift in abundance, these days and every day.”
In addition to hearing reports from various departments and ministries on how the past 6 years’ work focused on care for our sisters and care for our ministries, participants also had time for prayer and reflection. One panel offered reflections on the Convocation’s theme, and another offered thoughts on “how to see grace, how to look for one’s neighbor and how to have hope.” A video featuring some of our sisters’ reflections on “Everything is Gift; All is Grace,” was shown in the auditorium between sessions. And, there was time for celebrating and socializing – celebrating our Jubilarians, enjoying an art exhibition featuring sisters’ work, a barbecue, bingo and an ice cream social on the convent porch.
At the conclusion of the Convocation, the congregation celebrated the Eucharist and the transfer of leadership. They thanked Srs. Catherine Patten, Catherine Vincie and Maria Timoney for their service and welcomed their new leadership team, Sr. Rosamond Blanchet, Area Leader, joined by returning councilor Sr. Catherine Vincie and councilor Sr. Susan Gardella.