From the 23rd to the 25th of July 2024, the RSHM Eastern American Area met for reflection and sharing, the first phase of preparation 2025 General Chapter. The theme for the Chapter is “Women of Prophetic Hope, walking together, risking the new, that ALL may have LIFE.”
Following are some of the inspiring reflections on this theme presented by Mary Maher, SSND:
Now is a critical time for our Church and our world. Climate change, violence,poverty, displacement of people … all pose serious threats to humanity. How do we hold on to enthusiasm in the face of such risks? It is imperative to experience the Holy Spirit here in our commonality.
The Chapter theme calls us to “walk together” as explorers on a journey … we are inspired by the words of Elizabeth Seton to her sisters: “Go and meet your grace.” What will it be like on this journey? What do I know is true?
First: GOD AND I ARE OLD FRIENDS. I have a story of my relationship with God, the love of my life. Our relationship is different today from when I was younger. Familiarity with God in prayer has grown over the years.
Second: TO HAVE MY LIFE I MUST GIVE IT AWAY. Love is the lifeblood of being. That includes love of our enemies. The way to peace is to forgive others and receive forgiveness. It is a liberating process. It is not about me but for the common good. To be prophetic we need to “do Jesus” in the world on social and economic levels, transforming our reality.
At the conclusion of these days together the depth of the challenge and heartfelt confidence in God’s presence gave momentum to the General Chapter 2025 Prayer in our hearts:
God of eternal newness,
you are present
in our hopes and dreams and in the unfolding
of the universe.
Teach us to walk with you humbly, acting justly
and loving tenderly. (Mic 6:8)
Open our eyes to see
the future that you see, so that, like Mary, we may be
women of prophetic hope.
Guide our feet
So that we may walk together In the spirit of faith and zeal that gave light to our founders.
Embolden our hearts so that we may risk what is new, sure that you await us there.
We ask this in communion with all your people
In the deep and effective hope THAT ALL MAY HAVE LIFE.
Amen