Eight of us, associates and sisters, travelled to New Mexico to welcome two new CSJ Associates, Charlene Chavez and Angelica Flores, both from Santa Rosa. They made their first commitment in St. Rose Church on Saturday, September 21. Many of our thirty-seven associates from Albuquerque, Clovis, and Santa Rosa were present, and renewed their commitment at the ceremony.

Other highlights included visits to Acomba Pueblo, Bosque Redondo, Christ in the Desert Benedictine Monastery in Abiquiu, Santa Fe and, of course, Santa Rosa’s famous Blue Hole, as well as many miles of driving. We even saw hot air balloons preparing for the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta!

In reflecting on their experiences in New Mexico, associates Eva Arnott, Sarah Barrett, Suzanne Bradford, and Kathie Shute as well as Sisters Marian Batho, Patricia Cushing, Anne D’Arcy, and Mary Ellen O’Connell shared:

The natural landscape is spectacular and soul-searching, a secret space indeed! The beauty of the countryside was deeply moving.

We had graced opportunity for morning and evening prayer, and joy filled our gatherings. Sister Annie’s faith filled joy and hospitality welcomed us! Her work of 45 years makes us proud as she continues to serve and energize these great people!

We know that the mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Boston continues to be alive and active, not only among the associates, but also in the ministry of Sisters Ann Kaufmann and Rose Agnes Urban who continue to be a caring and nurturing presence in the “Land of Enchantment.”

The Women’s Table hosted a networking event on October 8 to connect Allston-Brighton neighbors and non-profits, new and old. It was a wonderful gathering; full of energy! Many organizations were represented – each unique – and yet each with the goal of reaching out to the dear neighbor in many different ways.

The atmosphere was conducive to forming alliances and sharing ideas in a comfortable and relaxed setting. People who gathered were animated with a desire to share what their organizations provided. Brochures and business cards with contact information were available. Many sisters from the motherhouse as well as members of the Women’s Table Advisory Board joined the gathering and moved about meeting new faces, reconnected with familiar ones, and volunteered with registration and hospitality.

The enthusiasm and dedication of all who attended was such a hopeful sign. It was invigorating and restorative to see so many people passionate about helping persons from all walks of life and infusing in those to whom they minister a sense of dignity, purpose, and empowerment. We will continue to build on the relationships forged. Those who gathered helped remind us of the inherent goodness of people at a time when our world is deeply in need of healing.