- October 24, 2024 Association, Community
By Associate Maureen Wessels, St. Louis Regional Co-Coordinator
On Aug. 17, 42 sisters and associates from the St. Louis area gathered for our quarterly social. Associate Carol Campbell hosted us at the St. Ferdinand Shrine in Florissant, Missouri. The shrine is where St. Rose Philippine Duchesne opened her novitiate for the sisters of the Society of the Sacred Heart in the early 1800s.
We were treated to a wonderful setting, complete with lovely tablecloths, fresh flowers and Old Town Donuts (St. Louis' best). It was a beautiful morning filled with fun, sharing, spirituality and history.
After a brief history of St. Rose Philippine and a prayer, Carole provided a rich history of the shrine, which included history of how Florissant was influenced by the French and Spanish.
Sister Lisa Lazio then presented, “The Uncommon Common Life,” and talked about listening to the call to community. We reflected on who may have influenced our calling. She also spoke about sharing of the heart and order of the house. Her presentation was wonderful and provided time to listen, reflect and share.
Moving into the church, we welcomed our new associates: Cathy Shroy, Adam Weyhaupt and Barbara Morrow. Each read their commitment statement. Director of Association Mary Armbrust presented them with their pins, followed by a blessing from Sister Maureen Freeman, a member of the Province Leadership Team.
The ceremony would not have been complete without singing, “Sancte Joseph,” graciously led by Sister Bonnie Murray.
View photos from the August gathering.
November Gathering
We look forward to our next gathering on Saturday, Nov. 16 at St. Joseph’s Academy in St. Louis. Keyway Center for Diversion and Reentry will present on the challenges women face as they transition from prison. For more information and to register to attend, click here.