April 2011
Celebration of New Associates, Renewal of Associate Covenant and Two Lasting Covenants
L to R: Associates Jennifer Cowan, Pam Bristol, Jane Kortz, Lorraine Johnson, Sheila McShane, Carlos Carreon, Connie Ballantyne, Todd Broderius, Sue Nies, Annie Welch
At the close of our Western Spring Assembly, we gathered in the Chapel at St. Mary-on-the-Lake in Bellevue Washington on Sunday, April 10, 2011 for our Celebration of Associate Covenant. We were pleased to have Congregation Leader, Sister Margaret Byrne, CSJP present to affirm the covenants of the CSJP Associates making or renewing their covenants with the Congregation.
Renewing their covenants were Connie Ballantyne, Pam Bristol, Todd Broderius, Carol Carreon, Lorraine Johnson, Jane Kortz, and Sheila McShane. Jennifer Cowan made her first covenant as an Associate of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace.
Annie Welch and Sue Nies made their Lasting Covenants as CSJP Associates. Both Annie and Sue shared their own reflections of gratitude to the CSJP community. In the words of Annie:
"You have been a refuge of sanity, in a world gone mad with war, destruction and violence…this community keeps me grounded in the knowledge that we can be the change we hope to see.
You have been a refuge of friendship. Some of my deepest and dearest friends are in this community. You have offered hospitality and opened your 'HOME' to me.
You have been a refuge of support, in every way, and in every endeavor you have offered prayers, encouragement, love and faithful witness of interest/concern.
You have been a refuge of appreciation of my gifts, drawing them forth always always affirming and allowing me to use them to I hope enhance the well being of this community, the world and the cosmos.
You have been refuge of laughter and joy, reminding me to celebrate life, be hopeful people and that all is gift. Johanna’s example of living life to the fullest was seen this very day!
You have been a refuge of challenge, by your amazing examples you model how to work daily to be a better person, peacemaker, to live more authentically and non-violently, and to keep prayer at the center of my life." ~Annie Welch, CSJP-A (read the full text of Annie's reflection)
After the celebration, we gathered at the Peace & Spirituality Center for refreshments, conversation and further celebration with family and friends.
Associates are women and men who live our spirit and mission in their different ways of life. Associates commit themselves to join with the CSJP mission of peace through justice by promoting peace in family life, in the church, and in society.