- February 14, 2020 Association
A passion for justice. A commitment to community. A witness of love.
These are just some of the characteristics of the newest CSJ associates who formerly joined CSJ Association by making their initial commitments on February 9.
These seven women, Kim Bernard, Doris Dimaya, Claire Gunn, Donna Horsford, Linda Renaud, Heather Rich and Dee White, join the more than 300 associates who believe in the mission and work of the sisters and commit to expressing it in their lives.
Partnered with a sister or associate sponsor, associates go through an 18-month candidacy period that includes learning about our history, spirituality and mission while getting to know the CSJ community better. They emerge from this process more conscious of how to live a life in loving unity with themselves and others.
“I commit to deepening my love of God, and of the dear neighbor and to strive to be a sign of unifying love for others,” says Donna Horsford.
Linda Renaud commits to “a life of loving service by doing my best to listen to those who need to be heard and by being a gentle presence of God’s love to all whom I encounter on my journey through life.”
Associates are women and men of all ages and from walks of life. Claire Gunn says, “I hope to live out this commitment by living Jesus, through being His hands, feet and heart in all I do … as an educator, daughter, a friend and however else the Spirit leads me.”
People are called to association to deepen their spirituality, foster a sense of belonging and take a stand for social justice.
Dee White says she made her commitment so that she may be part of a spiritual body much larger than herself. “I will forever strive to be the instruments of peace, unity and love this community has been for me,” she says.
“I desire to make this commitment to the Sisters of St. Joseph and their associates because I strongly identify with the importance of their charism and the truth it represents within humanity,” says Kim Bernard.
Heather Rich says, “I have a passion for service in social justice and admire how progressive the sisters are in serving the dear neighbor without distinction, even when their actions may cause a ruckus.”
Associates attest to feeling a sense of belonging and a life-giving experience that helps them live out the Gospel commandments of love of God and love of neighbor every day.
“I have been touched and blessed by the witness of love of God and neighbor in this community,” says Doris Dimaya. “I want to deepen my relationship with God through prayer, minister with the poor and sick, care for my family, and share my gifts with those I meet.”