Called to Glory!

The Sisters of Providence will have a presence at the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) entitled Called to Glory in Indianapolis this week (Nov. 17-19), where 23,000 spirited teens and adults are expected to converge. If you’re in town, come visit us at booth #247-250. This event, which happens every two years, is sponsored by the NFCYM.

It’s high energy and it’s encouraging for this Catholic convert – to see so many youth excited about their faith in God. High school age women and men, their chaperones and youth directors, will attend sessions designed to help them tackle real-life issues as well as encouraging them to put their faith in action through ministry. There will be beautiful and upbeat Christian music with poetic lyrics and rhythm to stir our hearts. It’s impossible to attend this event without being changed in some way. I’m reminded that there are young women (and men) who are seriously considering religious life. Our Christian faith is relevant to our lives today and the renewed lamp that shines on my own path will hopefully keep its brilliance as I return to my work, family and friends. My own faith is strengthened as I interact with all types of people. It’s a lot of work to set-up the booth, staff it adequately for three days and provide thousands of pieces of literature. But those are just the logistics. The true Spirit is in the faces of those attendees who I am blessed to meet. Here’s to a wonderful three days!

Picture of the Week: April 30

Sister Ann Kevin O'Connor got a surprise visit this week in the form of a crow that crashed into her room's window, leaving this perfectly formed imprint. The sisters and staff all agree that it looks just like the Holy Spirit!

Join the conversation!

The winter 2010 issue of HOPE has been mailed and is also available online. This issue provides insight into spiritual direction and how one might find a spiritual director.

In the article, “The sacrament of doubt,” Brother Barry Donaghue, cfc, shares about the role of doubt in one’s journey of faith. You are invited to join the conversation and share how doubt has played a role in your faith development by clicking here.

Meet Providence Associate Connie Schnapf

Providence Associate Connie Schnapf of Newburgh, Ind., is a director of religious education and a spiritual director. What exactly is a spiritual director? The latest issue of HOPE, which was mailed this week, addresses this question.

In this Web article, Connie answers a few questions about spiritual direction, something she likes to call “a gift that you give to yourself.” Click here for her article.