Author: Diane Smyth

Prison Ministry

Posted on by Diane Smyth

From our earliest days  in Newfoundland a number of Sisters of Mercy visited inmates of the various prisons in the town of St John’s and at the Salmonier prison farm.

Sisters are involved in the prison system as advocates, teachers, and pastoral care-givers. They provide spiritual and social activities to enhance the quality of the lives of the inmates by leading worship and prayer, by teaching sessions on self esteem, self-awareness and personal growth. They advocate for the basic needs of life, food, shelter, clothing for those who are leaving the prison and those who are trying to make a new life for themselves.

At the present time sisters go regularly to the men’s prison in Stephenville. Occasionally sisters visit the minimum security prison in St. John’s. Sometimes sisters accompany persons to the courts and serve as support, advocate and as witness.

Desde nuestros primeros días en Terranova, varias Hermanas de la Misericordia visitaron a los reclusos de las diversas prisiones de la ciudad de St John’s y de la granja de la prisión de Salmonier.

Las Hermanas participan en el sistema penitenciario como defensoras, maestras y cuidadoras pastorales. Proporcionan actividades espirituales y sociales para mejorar la calidad de vida de los reclusos dirigiendo el culto y la oración, impartiendo sesiones sobre autoestima, autoconciencia y crecimiento personal. Abogan por las necesidades básicas de la vida, la alimentación, el cobijo y la ropa de los que salen de la cárcel y de los que intentan forjarse una nueva vida.

Actualmente, las hermanas van regularmente a la prisión masculina de Stephenville. Ocasionalmente, las hermanas visitan la prisión de mínima seguridad de St. A veces las hermanas acompañan a las personas a los tribunales y les sirven de apoyo, de defensoras y de testigos.

 

Our Ministry in Peru

Posted on by Diane Smyth

The Sisters of Mercy of Newfoundland arrived in Peru in November 1961 – when a group of six sisters took the long journey to participate in the mission of the Archdiocese of St. John’s in Monsefu, Chiclayo.

Sisters of Mercy from Newfoundland and Peru now minister in two areas of the country – in Puerto Eten, Reque and Eten, in the Chiclayo region and in Huarmey, Casma, Ancash.  Eight sisters of the Congregation of the Sisters of Mercy of Newfoundland (including four native Peruvians) work with the people, especially poor people, in towns and small villages in these two regions of Peru.

The sisters in Peru work closely with the people in catechetics, adult education, and in the various aspects of parish and liturgical life. They serve as teachers, social workers, advocates and champions of social justice.

In 2017 devasting floods and rains destroyed large areas of Peru.  Damage in Huarmey was caused by overflowing rivers of water and mud that filled the streets and homes of the pueblos.  In Puerto Eten and area peoples’ homes did not have adequate roofing to keep out the rains.  Households were flooded and meager beds and furniture were destroyed.   The Sisters of Mercy and the Presentation Sisters in Newfoundland, along with some of the religious orders in Peru provided financial resources to obtain furniture and roofing for the people.  Other aid came from the Peruvian government and other international agencies.

Supporting the Ministry – Misericordia Mission Fund

Donations to the Misericordia Mission Fund, a registered charity established by the Sisters of Mercy of Newfoundland, are used in Peru to provide basic needs for poor families – food, clothing, fuel, medicine, education and shelter. Many children receive basic education and sometimes post secondary education through donations to the fund.

Educational programs and materials, e.g. reading materials,  computers, student supplies are made available when resources allow. Emphasis is placed on working with women in areas of family care, health, nutrition, sewing, gardening, etc.  Opportunities are provided for men and women to develop skills in carpentry and farming of family gardens – a cooperative venture to help people help themselves. Medical needs in the form of prescription drugs, diagnostic tests, x-rays, and special procedures or treatments are also provided through the fund.

Educational programs and materials, e.g. reading materials,  computers, student supplies are made available when resources allow. Emphasis is placed on working with women in areas of family care, health, nutrition, sewing, gardening, etc.  Opportunities are provided for men and women to develop skills in carpentry and farming of family gardens – a cooperative venture to help people help themselves. Medical needs in the form of prescription drugs, diagnostic tests, x-rays, and special procedures or treatments are also provided through the fund.

All donations to the Misericordia Mission Fund are used in their entirety for the needs of poor people. Donations are received by the Misericordia Mission Fund in Newfoundland and are distributed by the Sisters who are ministering in Peru. Income tax receipts are issued for all donations to the fund.

Misericordia Mission Fund
P.O. Box 1757
St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada, A1C 5P5
Telephone: 709-726-7320
Fax: 709-726-4414
E-mail: mercygeneralate@sistersofmercynf.org

 

Our Ministry in Peru

Posted on by Diane Smyth

The Sisters of Mercy of Newfoundland arrived in Peru in November 1961 when a group of six sisters took the long journey to participate in the mission of the Archdiocese of St. John’s in Monsefu, Chiclayo.

Our Sisters of Mercy now minister in two areas of the country – in Puerto Eten, Reque and Eten, in the Chiclayo region and in Huarmey, Ancash.  Six sisters of the Congregation of the Sisters of Mercy of Newfoundland (including four native Peruvians) work with the people, especially those made poor, in towns and small villages in these two regions of Peru.

The sisters in Peru work closely with the people in catechetics, adult education, and in various aspects of parish and liturgical life. They serve as teachers, social workers, advocates and champions of social justice.

During the years of Covid 19 the Sisters were challenged to look for ways to respond to the numerous needs that arose at that time. Peru was affected enormously by the onslaught of Covid and its health system collapsed totally. Together with our co-workers, the Conference of Religious of Lima, and The Conference of Religious of Chimbote, plans were made to look for and purchase an Oxygen Plant for the city of Chimbote.

In the Diocese of Chiclayo the Sisters had much support from Caritas organization, along with many individuals and NGOs, especially for their outdoor neighborhood kitchens .  These kitchens are the main way people receive a hot meal each day.

An additional threat to the Peruvian people is the advent of Dengue Fever spread by mosquitos.  This is undoubtedly due to the recent rains and floods.  Climate change is certainly obvious.

It´s important to add that during these years as well much effort has been dedicated to help individuals and families to begin small jobs or businesses. Thus they become more independent and able to provide for their families. This includes raising small animals, beginning a store, providing a kiosk so that a person can sell food, selling products on the street, helping seamstresses by providing sewing machines, etc.

In the Diocese of Chiclayo the Sisters had much support from Caritas organization, along with many individuals and NGOs, especially for their outdoor neighborhood kitchens .  These kitchens are the main way people receive a hot meal each day.

An additional threat to the Peruvian people is the advent of Dengue Fever spread by mosquitos.  This is undoubtedly due to the recent rains and floods.  Climate change is certainly obvious.

It´s important to add that during these years as well much effort has been dedicated to help individuals and families to begin small jobs or businesses. Thus they become more independent and able to provide for their families. This includes raising small animals, beginning a store, providing a kiosk so that a person can sell food, selling products on the street, helping seamstresses by providing sewing machines, etc.

The Sisters of Mercy and the Presentation Sisters in Newfoundland, along with some of the religious orders in Peru, provided financial resources to obtain medical supplies and food for the people.  Other aid came from the Peruvian government and other international agencies.

The Sisters were lead to recognize what they have lived through and are living through: the climatic disasters, the political instability, the insecurity, the corruption and terrific rise in violence.  All of these factors affect them and their ministry.  On the other hand they recognize the incredible resistance, resilience, courage and faith of the people shown and lived this past year.  The gestures of solidarity at all levels has been quite visible.

Like all Sisters of Mercy, who live out the charism of Catherine McAuley, the Sisters in Peru continue reflections on questions, concerns and themes.  They strive to “relieve misery, address its causes, and support all persons who struggle for full dignity” (Morning and Evening Prayer of the Sisters of Mercy, page 393)

Supporting the Ministry – Misericordia Mission Fund

Donations to the Misericordia Mission Fund, a registered charity established by the Sisters of Mercy of Newfoundland, are used in Peru to provide basic needs for poor families – food, clothing, fuel, medicine, education and shelter. Many children receive basic education and sometimes post secondary education through donations to the fund.

These last couple of years the Mission Fund has been able to respond to many needs caused by anti-government protests in the country when people could not work as usual; then the very heavy rains and floods have taken away not only peoples place of work, but many have lost homes and possessions. The fund has been used to form comedores and ollas communes (dining areas and common pots) and was able to lessen hunger and disease in many pueblos. Migrants, older people, and children are a special concern for our communities and the Mission fund works constantly with our lay people and coordinators to identify their needs and respond.

All donations to the Misericordia Mission Fund are used in their entirety for the needs of poor people. Donations received by the Misericordia Mission Fund in Newfoundland are distributed by the Sisters who are ministering in Peru. Income tax receipts are issued for all donations to the fund.

Misericordia Mission Fund
P.O. Box 1757
St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada  A1C 5P5

Prayer for Mothers’ Day, 14 May

Posted on by Diane Smyth

The second Sunday in May is celebrated as Mothers’ Day  This prayer honours motherhood and all those whose influence and care for us is as a mother. 

The response to each petition is: ‘Mother God we pray to you‘

For our own mothers, living and deceased …
For our grandmothers, sisters, aunts and all who have nurtured us over the years …
For mothers who continue to make sacrifices for the sake of their children…
For mothers who are taken for granted, forgotten or abandoned …
For mothers who are incarcerated, drug-addicted or prostituted …
For mothers of the disappeared …
For mothers who have lost children through sickness, suicide, violence and war …
For mothers in nursing homes …
For single mothers and divorced mothers …
For mothers who are homeless, battered or abused …
For mothers who are refugees and without a home or homeland …
For mothers of disabled and bullied children …
For mothers who are struggling with financial problems …
For mothers who are unable to care for or protect their children …
For our Mother Earth calling us to protect, cherish and heal her …
In gratitude for Mary, Mother of God whose life was centered on Jesus…
In gratitude for all who have given us love and support, security and hope …

Mother God, for all of these and for all we carry in our hearts, we ask your love and your blessing.
Amen

Download the entire Mothers’ Day Prayer – May 2023 (PDF)

El segundo domingo de mayo se celebra el Día de la Madre Esta oración honra la maternidad y a todas aquellas cuya influencia y cuidado para con nosotras es el de una madre.

La respuesta a cada petición es: ‘Madre Dios, te rogamos‘

Por nuestras propias madres, vivas y difuntas …
Por nuestras abuelas, hermanas, tías y todas las que nos han criado a lo largo de los años …
Por las madres que siguen haciendo sacrificios por el bien de sus hijos …
Por las madres a las que se da por sentadas, se olvida o se abandona …
Por las madres encarceladas, drogadictas o prostituidas …
Por las madres de los desaparecidos …
Para las madres que han perdido a sus hijos por enfermedad, suicidio, violencia o guerra …
Para las madres en residencias de ancianos …
Para madres solteras y divorciadas …
Para madres sin hogar, maltratadas o que sufren abusos …
Para madres refugiadas sin hogar ni patria …
Para madres de niños discapacitados o acosados …
Para madres con problemas económicos …
Por las madres que no pueden cuidar o proteger a sus hijos …
Por nuestra Madre Tierra, que nos llama a protegerla, cuidarla y curarla …
En gratitud por María, Madre de Dios, cuya vida se centró en Jesús …
En gratitud por todos los que nos han dado amor y apoyo, seguridad y esperanza …

Madre Dios, por todos ellos y por todos los que llevamos en nuestros corazones, te pedimos tu amor y tu bendición.
Amén

Descargar toda Reflexión para el Día de la Madre (PDF)

Join us in Prayer for Sudan

Posted on by Diane Smyth

Let us remember in prayer the people of Sudan who are in the midst of a huge humanitarian crisis. Even before the recent clashes, Sudan was experiencing great social upheaval, and the uprisings have exacerbated the crisis.

Khartoum, Sudan, ca. February 8., 2019: Street scene in downtown Khartoum, capital of Sudan

O God, we lift up Sudan and pray for stability in the region.
May those who covet power and those who seek to fight choose to walk the
path of peace.
Bring justice and healing to this divided land, we pray.
Out of this darkness, we pray that light will come.
We pray for a government that respects equality and religious freedom.
May Your church in this land reflect Your humility, forgiveness and love,
And so act as a signpost to the possibility of a different way of life.
Bring hope for those who feel helpless,
Healing for those who have been wounded,
And safety for all those who feel afraid.
Amen.

(Source: Open Doors UK)

Post your prayer in our sacred space here

Recordemos en la oración al pueblo de Sudán, sumido en una enorme crisis humanitaria. Incluso antes de los recientes enfrentamientos, Sudán experimentaba una gran agitación social, y las revueltas han exacerbado la crisis.

Oh Dios, elevamos a Sudán y oramos por la estabilidad de la región.
Que los que codician el poder y los que buscan combatir opten por caminar por el
camino de la paz.
Te rogamos que traigas justicia y sanación a esta tierra dividida.
Rezamos para que de esta oscuridad surja la luz.
Oramos por un gobierno que respete la igualdad y la libertad religiosa.
Que Tu Iglesia en esta tierra refleje Tu humildad, perdón y amor,
y así actúe como un poste indicador de la posibilidad de una forma de vida diferente.
Trae esperanza para los que se sienten desamparados,
Cura a los que han sido heridos,
Y seguridad para todos los que sienten miedo.
Amén.

(Fuente: Open Doors UK)

Publica tu oración en nuestro espacio sagrado aquí

Elizabeth Davis rsm: ‘Re-imagining a Healthcare System Good Enough for All of Us’

Posted on by Diane Smyth

Elizabeth Davis rsm, in her capacity as a Director of the Gathering Place, was one of the speakers at the event entitled: ‘Forum on health outcomes and healthcare costs: What Can We Afford?’ held 7 March, 2018 to consider the challenges facing health and the healthcare system in Newfoundland & Labrador.

In her passionate address, ‘Re-imagining a Healthcare System Good Enough for All of Us’, Sr Elizabeth, while acknowledging the strengths of the current system, argues for a completely new system that responds to the health needs of the poorest, oldest and most vulnerable persons in Newfoundland society. In her presentation she addresses ecology and human health: ‘a healthy human population is dependant upon a healthy natural environment’.

Elizabeth Davis rsm, en su calidad de directora de Gathering Place, fue una de las ponentes del acto titulado: “Foro sobre resultados sanitarios y costes de la atención sanitaria: ¿Qué podemos permitirnos?”, celebrado el 7 de marzo de 2018 para analizar los retos a los que se enfrentan la salud y el sistema sanitario en Terranova y Labrador.

En su apasionado discurso, “Reimaginar un sistema sanitario lo suficientemente bueno para todos nosotros”, la hermana Elizabeth, aunque reconoce los puntos fuertes del sistema actual, aboga por un sistema completamente nuevo que responda a las necesidades sanitarias de las personas más pobres, mayores y vulnerables de la sociedad de Terranova. En su presentación aborda la ecología y la salud humana: “una población humana sana depende de un entorno natural sano”.

World Day of the Poor: Hearing the Cries in St John’s, Newfoundland

Posted on by Diane Smyth

 Sunday, 18 November, will be the Second World Day of the Poor. Diane Smyth rsm  was invited to help the Mercy world reflect on the underlying meaning of this day. Sr Diane writes:

The Gathering Place

is a large centre located in a former school building in the heart of St. John’s, Newfoundland, operated by two religious orders of women, the Presentation and the Mercy Sisters.  It is a place where those who are made poor for many different reasons and in many ways may receive food, clothing, personal and medical care, dental care, and counselling;  where individuals can have a shower, do their laundry, have their feet cared for by trained personnel. Most of all, the members enjoy the companionship of other men and women who may be in need themselves or volunteers who provide friendship, support and encouragement and who can take a beating in a card game!  There is time and space for art, music and computer. 

On Hallowe’en this year something interesting happened!  Many people, young and old, dress   d in costume to bring a Hallowe’en spirit to their school or workplace.  A woman who worked near the Gathering Place dressed in costume as a hippy with long hair wig, dark glasses and sloppy dress.  She had laid a few bags near the fence as she prepared to go to her job in a convent nearby.  When she noticed a colleague of hers approach her she bent down a little so she would not be recognized  and begged for cigarettes.  The colleague hardly spoke to her, turned her back on her and walked away, saying “No, no cigarettes.”   She did not realize who the “begger” was!

Might that encounter have been different had she known the true identity of the “hippy”?   Does this story sound a little like the Gospel story of the Good Samaritan?  It presents us with a sobering reflection: how do we treat and relate to the ”other”, especially the ones who are almost invisible and nameless in our society, the ones who look shabby, dirty or disheveled?  The ones who beg at the entrance to the shop or on the sidewalk?

‘A hand rules compassion as a hand rules heaven.’ Artist: Gerald Squires, Ceramic Artwork at the Gathering place

 Many of those who go to the Gathering Place have so very little in every aspect of their lives.  They are those on the     edges of society and have hardly an identity card!   For most of their lives they have grown up in need, disorder and   displacement and have had no family, little education or skills, no stable dwelling place, don’t know where and how   they will get food, clothing or shelter.  Many suffer from psychological, mental and physical ailments, personality   disorder, addiction, criminal record, interpersonal conflict or antisocial behaviours.  As members of the Gathering   Place (annual fee $3.00), they find care and response to many of their needs, all that I mentioned earlier.  The   majority of the members find in the Gathering Place “their place”.  Some have learned how to send emails, surf the   web, obtain good quality and clean clothing, have substantial meals with bread to take home, have space to play games, read, watch television, develop literacy skills, develop any artistic, creative or musical skills that they might have.  Some have said that the Gathering Place has saved their lives, giving them a sense of belonging, of self-esteem, of dignity.  Some even earn a few dollars from the occasional sale of their created products, like jewelry or art.

With the faithful leadership of a small number of dedicated staff and over 1,100 volunteers, the Gathering Place reaches out to each member and guest to provide for most of the needs of each person.  At the Gathering Place the members find dignity, respect and love; at the same time the staff and volunteers are blessed in their commitment and generous love.  Occasionally there may be eruptions of conflict and outbursts of anger among members but these are minimal in the total scheme of things.  The members hold a certain loyalty and are protective of “their place”.  For the most part each person is proud to be a member and enjoys the freedom , the space and the interpersonal encounters with other members, staff and volunteers.  Most of these men and women are the ‘displaced’ persons of St. John’s and surrounding area but at the Gathering Place they have a place of love and care, a place where they are welcome, a place that becomes home for the few hours each day that they are there.  As the harsh and isolating winter of the north Atlantic sets in, the Gathering Place will be even more important in their daily lives. 

The Gathering Place has wonderful credibility and visibility in the local community and is well supported by many individuals, groups and organizations who represent the important outer circle of the caring and wider community.  The whole circle of care, including every person or group involved, ensures that the Gathering Place is a beacon of light and hope at the centre of the St. John’s community and a model that challenges others to reach out to those men, women and children who live on the fringes and in need of the basics of life.
Kindness is wanted and needed so that no person is left outside a circle of care and compassion.

Messages to: Diane Smyth rsm – Leadership Team

 

150 Years of Mercy in Conception Harbour, Newfoundland

Posted on by Diane Smyth

The Sisters of Mercy have provided ministry in Conception Harbour for over 150 years. 

On Tuesday May 21 about thirty of us attended a grand celebration in the parish of Eucharist followed by a hot roast beef dinner.  Sister Roisin Gannon represented the Presentation Sisters.  Bishop Anthony Daniels surrounded by seven priests of the Grand Falls Diocese celebrated Eucharist in St. Anne’s Church with participation of the sisters and parishioners in readings, music and other moments in the liturgy.  The church was sparkling and beautifully decorated with roses.  A large banner hung in the church acknowledging the 150 years’ anniversary – Our Journey Together!  At the end of Mass, a plaque was presented to the Congregation which will be placed in the church to commemorate the anniversary.  In his homily Bishop Daniels connected the call and ministry of the sisters to that of the early disciples of Jesus and gratefully commended their life and ministry among the people of Conception Harbour and surrounding area.

Almost 180 friends and parishioners were seated at the banquet tables in St. Anne’s Hall and were served a delicious meal catered by Tiny’s Restaurant.   Mrs. Agnes (O’Driscoll) Richard recounted her memories of going to school to the sisters and told wonderful and humorous stories of her experiences in the various grade levels.  Sister Elizabeth Davis responded with a little of the history of the foundation and proud commendation of the support and collaboration of the people during all those years and up to the present.  She included a remembrance of the five sisters who are buried in the convent garden and in the receptive soil of Conception Harbour.  The Mayor presented Sister Geraldine with a plaque to commemorate the anniversary.  A huge cake baked and decorated by the niece of Sister M. Damien Morrissey was served to the crowd at the end of the dinner. (The small statue of Mary on the cake was salvaged from St. Anne’s School when it closed!  The baker told me she couldn’t find a ’nun’ statue!)

Congratulations to the Sisters who currently live and minister in Conception Harbour, Sisters Geraldine Mason, Ruth Beresford and Ellen Marie Sullivan!

Congratulations to the Sisters of Mercy especially those who ministered there, and to the generous, faithful and loving people and church of Conception Harbour!  Congratulations and thanks to all who prepared the details of the celebration! Congratulations on this 150th anniversary celebration!

Messages to: Sisters of Mercy Newfoundland

Las Hermanas de la Misericordia llevan más de 150 años ejerciendo su ministerio en Conception Harbour.

El martes 21 de mayo una treintena de nosotras asistimos a una gran celebración en la parroquia de la Eucaristía seguida de una cena caliente de carne asada. La Hermana Roisin Gannon representó a las Hermanas de la Presentación. El obispo Anthony Daniels rodeado de siete sacerdotes de la diócesis de Grand Falls celebró la Eucaristía en la iglesia de Santa Ana con la participación de las hermanas y los feligreses en las lecturas, la música y otros momentos de la liturgia. La iglesia estaba resplandeciente y bellamente decorada con rosas. En la iglesia colgaba una gran pancarta en reconocimiento del 150 aniversario: ¡Nuestro viaje juntos! Al final de la misa, se entregó a la Congregación una placa que se colocará en la iglesia para conmemorar el aniversario. En su homilía, el obispo Daniels relacionó la llamada y el ministerio de las hermanas con el de los primeros discípulos de Jesús y elogió con gratitud su vida y su ministerio entre la gente de Conception Harbour y alrededores.

Casi 180 amigos y feligreses se sentaron a las mesas del banquete en la Sala de Santa Ana y se les sirvió una deliciosa comida servida por el Restaurante Tiny’s. La Sra. Agnes (O’Driscoll) Richard relató a las hermanas sus recuerdos de cuando iba a la escuela y contó historias maravillosas y llenas de humor de sus experiencias en los distintos grados. La hermana Elizabeth Davis respondió con un poco de la historia de la fundación y elogió con orgullo el apoyo y la colaboración de la gente durante todos esos años y hasta el presente. Incluyó un recuerdo de las cinco hermanas que están enterradas en el jardín del convento y en el suelo receptivo de Conception Harbour. El alcalde entregó a la hermana Geraldine una placa conmemorativa del aniversario. Al final de la cena se sirvió a los asistentes una enorme tarta horneada y decorada por la sobrina de la hermana M. Damien Morrissey. (¡La pequeña estatua de María de la tarta fue rescatada del colegio Santa Ana cuando cerró! La pastelera me dijo que no pudo encontrar una estatua de “monja”).

Felicidades a las Hermanas que actualmente viven y ejercen su ministerio en Conception Harbour, las Hermanas Geraldine Mason, Ruth Beresford y Ellen Marie Sullivan.

Felicidades a las Hermanas de la Misericordia, especialmente a las que ejercen su ministerio allí, y a la generosa, fiel y cariñosa gente e iglesia de Conception Harbour. ¡Felicidades y gracias a todos los que prepararon los detalles de la celebración! ¡Felicidades por esta celebración del 150 aniversario!

Mensajes para: Hermanas de la Misericordia de Terranova

Circle Report from Newfoundland

Posted on by Diane Smyth

We, a reflection circle of Sisters of Mercy, NL, express our deep gratitude for the incredibly rich and diverse reflections on Cosmology. We are delighted!

Our musings:

A new cosmological narrative with “Cosmos meaning all creation, the entire universe, every dimension of time and space (spiritual and material)” is one of “a global heartbeat” in “kinship as a planetary community”. In uniqueness, we are “aligned” /”in harmony”/ “in wonder”/”delight”/”bending low…play-ful” as “one with the heartbeat of God”.

We are in “accompaniment” with God who is forever “companioning” and who has “mercified the universe into being” (with Mercy being “the very heartbeat of God resonant in creation”). “An entire creation has been groaning in one great act of giving birth in an evolving universe”, a universe “where the more we know, the more we need to know.”

As interconnected and interdependent, we must “see ourselves related to the poor”, and thus “feel compelled to limit our consumer patterns to aid the poor or to develop alternate economies.” We are “participators in God’s continuous creation” as we “trust in the slow work of God” and “that [God’s] hand is leading [us].”

—Marcella Grant, rsm, Theresa Boland, rsm, Eileen Penney, rsm,  Frances Flynn, rsm, Dolorosa Brennan, rsm, Sheila O’Dea, rsm,  Alverna Harnett, rsm, Loretta Walsh, rsm,  Elizabeth Marrie rsm

Messages to: Elizabeth Marrie rsm-MGP Coordinator

Nosotras, un círculo de reflexión de Hermanas de la Misericordia, NL, expresamos nuestra profunda gratitud por las increíblemente ricas y diversas reflexiones sobre Cosmología. ¡Estamos encantadas!

Nuestras reflexiones:

Una nueva narrativa cosmológica con “Cosmos significando toda la creación, el universo entero, cada dimensión de tiempo y espacio (espiritual y material)” es una de “un latido global” en “parentesco como una comunidad planetaria”. En singularidad, estamos “alineados”/”en armonía”/”maravillados”/”encantados”/”inclinados…alegres” como “uno con el latido del corazón de Dios”.

Estamos en “acompañamiento” con Dios, que siempre está “acompañando” y que ha “misericordiado al universo para que sea” (siendo la misericordia “el latido mismo del corazón de Dios que resuena en la creación”). “Toda la creación ha estado gimiendo en un gran acto de dar a luz en un universo en evolución”, un universo “donde cuanto más sabemos, más necesitamos saber”.

Como interconectados e interdependientes, debemos “vernos relacionados con los pobres”, y así “sentirnos obligados a limitar nuestras pautas de consumo para ayudar a los pobres o desarrollar economías alternativas.” Somos “partícipes de la creación continua de Dios” mientras “confiamos en el lento trabajo de Dios” y “en que la mano [de Dios] nos está guiando”.

-Marcella Grant, rsm, Theresa Boland, rsm, Eileen Penney, rsm, Frances Flynn, rsm, Dolorosa Brennan, rsm, Sheila O’Dea, rsm, Alverna Harnett, rsm, Loretta Walsh, rsm, Elizabeth Marrie rsm

Mensajes para: Elizabeth Marrie rsm-Coordinadora del MGP

For a Synodal Church

Posted on by Diane Smyth

Pope Francis has invited the entire Church to reflect on the path of synodality which he says is “decisive” for the “life and mission of the Church of the third millennium”. This global journey of communion, participation and mission includes a period of consultation with local churches around the world, with individuals and communities invited to submit responses that will form part of a listening process culminating in the Synod of Bishops in Rome in October 2023.

Occasional updates on the path of synodality are being published on this site.

Pope Francis expands participation in the Synod (5 May 2023).

Pope Francis’ decision to expand participation in the Synod has made a significant impact on the Catholic world. Seventy non-bishop members are expected to participate in the synod being held at the Vatican in October, with half of the non-ordained beingwomen. The Pope also provided for greater gender parity among religious orders participating in the synod- five from women’s congregations and five from men’s.

Read the article from the April 27 Global Siste Report regarding this very significant decision.

Update on the North American Phase of Synod (28 April 2023).

The Canadian and American Catholics who participated in the NA continental phase of the Synod focused mainly on three areas: the need to rebuild trust in the wake of abuse scandals, the need to be inclusive and welcoming while being faithful to Church teaching, and the need for a “missionary” Church that goes out to the peripheries. Participants reflected on the Vatican working document and offered contributions based on the discussions of the Synod

at the parish and diocesan levels. From these reflections a report – North American Final Document for the Continental Phase of the 2021-2024 Synod – was compiled. At its release on April 12, the Canadian and American Bishop’s Conferences noted that the document “explores those areas where we must turn our attention as we continue cultivating a more synodal Church in Canada and the United States.”

Synod on Synodality (7 April).

The “continental stage” of the Synod on Synodality concluded on March 31, 2023. The seven continental assemblies took place over February and March,bringing together members from all levels of the Church –bishops, laity, priests, and members of orders of consecrated life, both women and men.  The intent of this stage was to deepen discernment on what had emerged from the earlier local and national stage, using

Enlarge the Space of your Tent as a working docum

This continental stage was a unique process of listening and discernment on a continental level.  Each assembly looked at the question that is at the heart of the synodal process – how can the “walking together” that will enable the Church to live and proclaim its Gospel message be achieved today at all levels from local to universal? The fruit of the discussions of the continental stage is contained in documents produced by each assembly that will serve as a major contribution to the first session of the Synod of Bishops in October 2023.

Continental Stage of the Synod (24 February 2023).

The Continental stage of the Synod is intended to be a time of reflection and discernment of all the local churches on a continental basis. These continental assemblies are meeting between January and March 2023 to prepare a response to the Synod’s working Document, Enlarging the Space of your Tent.  This document is the result of a group reflection on the syntheses of issues and questions raised during the listening sessions of Stage One of the Synod, a stage in which we were all involved.

There are seven continental groupings: North America, Latin America and the Caribbean, Europe, Middle East, Africa and Madagascar, Asia, Oceania. The continental assemblies were asked to carry out their consultations using the working document as a basis for reflection on three questions:

  • Identification of the intuitions contained in the document that resonate most with the experience of their particular territory
  • The questions or issues that need further attention in the next steps of the synodal process
  • The priorities or recurring themes they would like discussed in the first session of the Synod in October 2023

In late 2022 and early 2023 the North American continental group – Canada and the United States -held ten virtual assemblies in which all 267 dioceses were represented.  From February 13 -17, a group of seventeen delegates representing the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Canadian Conference Bishops met in Orlando, Florida to develop a response to the working document from the North American Church, drawing on feedback from the virtual continental assemblies. Their response is to be submitted to the General Secretariat of the Synod by March 31.

El Papa Francisco ha invitado a toda la Iglesia a reflexionar sobre el camino de la sinodalidad que, según él, es “decisivo” para la “vida y misión de la Iglesia del tercer milenio”. Este camino global de comunión, participación y misión incluye un período de consulta con las iglesias locales de todo el mundo, con individuos y comunidades invitados a presentar respuestas que formarán parte de un proceso de escucha que culminará en el Sínodo de los Obispos en Roma en octubre de 2023.

En este sitio se publican actualizaciones ocasionales sobre el camino de la sinodalidad.

El Papa Francisco amplía la participación en el Sínodo (5 de mayo de 2023).

La decisión del Papa Francisco de ampliar la participación en el Sínodo ha tenido un impacto significativo en el mundo católico. Se espera que setenta miembros no obispos participen en el Sínodo que se celebrará en el Vaticano en octubre, y que la mitad de los no ordenados sean mujeres. El Papa también dispuso una mayor paridad de género entre las órdenes religiosas participantes en el sínodo: cinco de congregaciones femeninas y cinco masculinas.

Lea el artículo del Global Siste Report del 27 de abril sobre esta decisión tan significativa.

Información actualizada sobre la fase norteamericana del Sínodo (28 de abril de 2023).

Los católicos canadienses y estadounidenses que participaron en la fase continental norteamericana del Sínodo se centraron principalmente en tres áreas: la necesidad de reconstruir la confianza tras los escándalos de abusos, la necesidad de ser inclusivos y acogedores a la vez que fieles a la doctrina de la Iglesia, y la necesidad de una Iglesia “misionera” que salga a las periferias. Los participantes reflexionaron sobre el documento de trabajo del Vaticano y ofrecieron contribuciones basadas en los debates del Sínodo

a nivel parroquial y diocesano. A partir de estas reflexiones se elaboró un informe: Documento final norteamericano para la fase continental del Sínodo 2021-2024. En su publicación el 12 de abril, las Conferencias Episcopales de Canadá y Estados Unidos señalaron que el documento “explora las áreas en las que debemos centrar nuestra atención mientras seguimos cultivando una Iglesia más sinodal en Canadá y Estados Unidos”.

Sínodo sobre la Sinodalidad (7 de abril).

La “etapa continental” del Sínodo sobre la Sinodalidad concluyó el 31 de marzo de 2023. Las siete asambleas continentales se celebraron en febrero y marzo y reunieron a miembros de todos los niveles de la Iglesia: obispos, laicos, sacerdotes y miembros de las órdenes de vida consagrada, tanto mujeres como hombres. La intención de esta etapa era profundizar el discernimiento sobre lo que había surgido en la etapa local y nacional anterior, utilizando

Ampliar el espacio de tu tienda como documento de trabajo

Esta etapa continental fue un proceso único de escucha y discernimiento a nivel continental. Cada asamblea examinó la cuestión que está en el centro del proceso sinodal: ¿cómo puede lograrse hoy, a todos los niveles, desde el local al universal, el “caminar juntos” que permitirá a la Iglesia vivir y proclamar su mensaje evangélico? El fruto de los debates de la etapa continental se recoge en los documentos elaborados por cada asamblea que servirán de importante contribución a la primera sesión del Sínodo de los Obispos en octubre de 2023.

Etapa continental del Sínodo (24 de febrero de 2023).

La Etapa Continental del Sínodo pretende ser un tiempo de reflexión y discernimiento de todas las Iglesias locales a nivel continental. Estas asambleas continentales se reúnen entre enero y marzo de 2023 para preparar una respuesta al Documento de trabajo del Sínodo, Ampliad el espacio de vuestra tienda. Este documento es el resultado de una reflexión en grupo sobre la síntesis de las cuestiones y preguntas planteadas durante las sesiones de escucha de la Primera Etapa del Sínodo, etapa en la que todos estuvimos implicados.

Las agrupaciones continentales son siete: América del Norte, América Latina y Caribe, Europa, Oriente Medio, África y Madagascar, Asia y Oceanía. Se pidió a las asambleas continentales que realizaran sus consultas utilizando el documento de trabajo como base para reflexionar sobre tres cuestiones:

Identificación de las intuiciones contenidas en el documento que más resuenan con la experiencia de su territorio particular.
Las cuestiones o temas que requieren mayor atención en las próximas etapas del proceso sinodal
Las prioridades o temas recurrentes que les gustaría que se debatieran en la primera sesión del Sínodo en octubre de 2023.

A finales de 2022 y principios de 2023, el grupo continental norteamericano -Canadá y Estados Unidos- celebró diez asambleas virtuales en las que estuvieron representadas las 267 diócesis. Del 13 al 17 de febrero, un grupo de diecisiete delegados que representaban a la Conferencia Episcopal de Estados Unidos y a la Conferencia Episcopal Canadiense se reunieron en Orlando, Florida, para elaborar una respuesta al documento de trabajo de la Iglesia norteamericana, basándose en los comentarios de las asambleas continentales virtuales. Su respuesta deberá presentarse a la Secretaría General del Sínodo antes del 31 de marzo.