The attraction of sisters and associates

Sister Denise Wilkinson gives the reflection during the Rite of Commitment and Renewal on Nov. 12.

The big day for the Providence Associate Relationship for 2011 has now come and gone. The Church of the Immaculate Conception at the Woods was filled with candidates, associates, sisters, family and friends as 15 women and men made their first commitments as Providence Associates. Along with these candidates, nearly 40 Providence Associates renewed their commitments.

General Superior Sister Denise Wilkinson provided the reflection for the rite. Sister Denise reflected on the words of Brian Swimme in his work, “The Universe Is A Green Dragon.” She talked about Swimme’s concept of “an activity of attraction.”

Sister Denise shared, “ … we have a deep inner knowing that – in spite of the wide variety of gifts, service, and ministries among us as Sisters of Providence and as associates – we experience a pull to one another that is both inexplicable and undeniable. We find ourselves attracted to one another – as different as each of us is from the other – by a recognition of the action of  Providence, the action of God’s Spirit.”

After the Rite of Commitment and Renewal and the Eucharistic Liturgy, everyone gathered in the auditorium of Owens Hall for a reception. Be sure to check back next week to see photos from this special day.