Spring 2012 - Dominican Sisters of Peace
Spring 2012 - Dominican Sisters of Peace
Spring 2012 - Dominican Sisters of Peace
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Preaching with a New Fire<br />
Living<br />
Prayer
Preaching with a New Fire<br />
is a periodic publication produced<br />
for donors, benefactors, friends, and<br />
family <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Peace</strong>. We have made every attempt<br />
to be accurate and complete; if you<br />
notice an error or omission, please<br />
accept our apologies and alert us to<br />
the mistake (614.416.1900).<br />
We gratefully acknowledge all those<br />
who contributed to this issue – those<br />
featured and those listed below.<br />
Editor:<br />
Karen L. Clay, OPA<br />
Contributors:<br />
Cathy Arnold, OP<br />
Rita Birzer, OP<br />
Alice Black, OPA<br />
Ruth Caspar, OP<br />
Maria Ciriello, OP<br />
Renee Dreiling, OP<br />
Barbara Harrington, OP<br />
Jennifer Heiser, OPA<br />
Diane Kozlowski, OP<br />
Julia McCafferty<br />
Sarah McClellan<br />
Donna Medley, OPA<br />
Charlene Moser, OP<br />
Mariellen Phelps, OP<br />
Marilyn Pierson, OP<br />
Pat Twohill, OP<br />
Judith Ward, SNDdeN<br />
Editorial Advisory Council:<br />
Barbara Brown<br />
Diocese <strong>of</strong> Columbus<br />
Deborah Eschenbacher<br />
Eschenbacher & Associates<br />
Margaret Corbett Sullivan<br />
Corbett Sullivan Advertising &<br />
Public Relations (retired)<br />
Help us conserve our<br />
resources by joining our<br />
electronic mailing list!<br />
Sign up today at<br />
www.oppeace.org<br />
© <strong>2012</strong> All rights reserved.<br />
<strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Peace</strong><br />
2320 Airport Drive<br />
Columbus, Ohio 43219<br />
614.416.1900<br />
My dear friends,<br />
As you daily lift up your minds and hearts to God, we<br />
<strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Peace</strong> are doing the same. This<br />
issue focuses on our practice <strong>of</strong> prayer. Though special, it<br />
is an ordinary part <strong>of</strong> our lives as consecrated women.<br />
Prayer is the very breath <strong>of</strong> our lives, the essential lifegiving<br />
source <strong>of</strong> who we are and everything we do. And<br />
this is what impels us all to service, reaching out to those in need.<br />
What is the rhythm <strong>of</strong> our prayers? How do we punctuate our lives with<br />
prayer? First, we commit ourselves to contemplative prayer daily. This time alone<br />
with God under-girds all that we do – our ministry, our lives with each other in<br />
community, our study. Some <strong>of</strong> us choose early morning; others prefer the end <strong>of</strong><br />
the day. Some <strong>of</strong> us pray best in our chapels, for others it is God’s created universe<br />
that inspires moments <strong>of</strong> contemplation. Wherever one chooses to pray, we<br />
share in common our belief that it is God who calls us to contemplation.<br />
Amid our daily prayers, we engage in such rituals as the lighting <strong>of</strong> candles and<br />
bowing at the praise <strong>of</strong> the Triune God. We also surround ourselves with symbols,<br />
especially during different liturgical seasons – a globe, bread, pictures <strong>of</strong> our <strong>Sisters</strong><br />
and Associates in mission – to enhance our efforts to commune with God.<br />
Daily, we also pray the psalms and hymns <strong>of</strong> the Church’s Liturgy <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Hours. For most, this brings us together at the beginning and ending <strong>of</strong> each day<br />
for periods <strong>of</strong> community prayer. Often one <strong>of</strong> us prepares to preach on the<br />
Scriptures <strong>of</strong> the day. We close these prayers with intercessions, remembering the<br />
needs <strong>of</strong> the Church, the world, and our loved ones – and that means you.<br />
The Eucharist centers all <strong>of</strong> our prayer, when the Gospel is proclaimed, we are<br />
fed with the Bread <strong>of</strong> Life, and we go forth to continue the preaching. Para-liturgical<br />
prayers are prepared by our <strong>Sisters</strong> or others when a priest is not available<br />
for Eucharist and for special occasions, such as the International Day <strong>of</strong> <strong>Peace</strong>. In<br />
some <strong>of</strong> our Motherhouses, adoration <strong>of</strong> the Blessed Sacrament is observed on<br />
special occasions. To deepen our daily prayer, we commit ourselves to an annual<br />
retreat: some make it privately, others choose a preached retreat, while still others<br />
engage in directed ones.<br />
Throughout this publication you will find examples <strong>of</strong> the many different<br />
kinds and occasions <strong>of</strong> prayer in our lives. These rhythms are so much a part <strong>of</strong><br />
our lives that we <strong>of</strong>ten engage in them without comment. I hope you find an<br />
echo <strong>of</strong> your own prayer life within these pages so that together we can unite our<br />
prayers with and for God’s people.<br />
Let us continue to lift up our minds and hearts to God with and for one another.<br />
Margaret Ormond, OP, Prioress<br />
Inside This Issue<br />
Prayer: the Heart <strong>of</strong> it All 3<br />
Ways to Pray 4-5<br />
Helping Others to Pray 6-7<br />
Prayer in Our Ministries 8-11<br />
The Experience <strong>of</strong> Prayer 12
Prayer: the Heart <strong>of</strong> it All<br />
For every member <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Dominican</strong> Family, whether Friar, Sister, Nun or Laity, prayer is absolutely essential. The<br />
newly approved Constitutions <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Peace</strong> (2009) <strong>of</strong>fer St. Dominic and St. Catherine <strong>of</strong> Siena as<br />
models <strong>of</strong> prayer and speak <strong>of</strong> the practices highlighted throughout this publication. Perhaps these lines from the Prologue<br />
capture best the spirit <strong>of</strong> our commitment to prayer:<br />
“God’s ever-faithful Love, discovered daily in prayer and contemplation, in Word and Sacrament, in study,<br />
ministry and community, impels us to listen and to respond to God’s Spirit with zeal, compassion, and joy.”<br />
Eucharist<br />
The Mass, along with the Liturgy <strong>of</strong> the Hours, constitutes the <strong>of</strong>ficial public prayer life <strong>of</strong> the Church. As<br />
with all Catholics, it is the Eucharist that sustains us in all we do and unites us with all others in the Church<br />
throughout the world. Mass is celebrated on a daily basis in all our Motherhouse and health care center<br />
chapels. During these liturgies and at other prayer times, our <strong>Sisters</strong> pray for the individuals and situations<br />
written in the chapel books <strong>of</strong> intentions. It is one way we<br />
unite with our families, friends, benefactors, and donors in<br />
prayer to our loving God. We warmly invite you to attend<br />
Mass with us at any <strong>of</strong> our Motherhouses or other institutions<br />
where Eucharist is celebrated! Please call your local<br />
location for schedules and other details (scan this code for<br />
contact information).<br />
Liturgy <strong>of</strong> the Hours<br />
Known by many names and taught since the Roman<br />
times, Liturgy <strong>of</strong> the Hours or the Divine Office is the set<br />
<strong>of</strong> daily prayers meant to be recited at the canonical hours.<br />
In our Motherhouses and convents, the Liturgy <strong>of</strong> the Hours is said in community and is <strong>of</strong>ten sung. Individual<br />
<strong>Sisters</strong> living on mission elsewhere say the Divine Office as part <strong>of</strong> their own personal daily devotions.<br />
As all <strong>Sisters</strong> pray the Office, it is almost a rite <strong>of</strong> passage, taught to Novices during their training.<br />
<strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Peace</strong> novices receive this instruction at the Collaborative <strong>Dominican</strong> Novitate (CDN)<br />
in St. Louis, Missouri, where they spend their Canonical Novitiate year. The women are given direction at<br />
the beginning <strong>of</strong> the year, and as the year progresses, so does the prayer. According to <strong>Dominican</strong> Sister <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Peace</strong> Joye Gros, Co-Director <strong>of</strong> the CDN, depending on the novice’s previous knowledge and musical ability,<br />
the prayers are slowly introduced. Most start with the Salve and then gradually move toward shared<br />
preaching. The goal is not to move quickly, but to pray meaningfully. Although most prayers are meant to be<br />
shared, the experience is deeply personal. “The novices really find that the Liturgy <strong>of</strong> Hours brings inner<br />
peace and a sense <strong>of</strong> daily devotion,” shares Sr. Joye.<br />
“The purpose <strong>of</strong> the Divine Office is to sanctify the day and all human activity....<br />
[it is] the prayer not only <strong>of</strong> the clergy but <strong>of</strong> the whole People <strong>of</strong> God.”<br />
Apostolic Constitution, Canticum Laudis<br />
<strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Peace</strong> 3
Ways to Pray<br />
Lectio Divina<br />
Lectio Divina, or “Sacred Reading,” is an ancient Christian practice <strong>of</strong><br />
scriptural reflection to promote communion with God and to increase<br />
the knowledge <strong>of</strong> God’s Word. Instead <strong>of</strong> treating scripture as text to be<br />
studied, it presents scripture as the Living Word. The art <strong>of</strong> Lectio Divina<br />
encompasses four separate parts – reading (lectio), meditating (meditatio),<br />
praying (oratio), and contemplating (contemplatio). It is through this<br />
process that the Scripture passage is first read and then reflected upon.<br />
This is then followed by prayer and contemplation <strong>of</strong> God’s Word.<br />
Centering Prayer<br />
“When I was very young, I learned from ‘junk mail’ flyers about contemplation and the<br />
contemplative way <strong>of</strong> life. The advertisements about St. Therese <strong>of</strong> Lisieux fascinated me to<br />
the point <strong>of</strong> wanting to go to France to join her convent! However, I eventually found the <strong>Dominican</strong>s<br />
and was drawn to our motto: to contemplate and to share the fruits <strong>of</strong> contemplation.<br />
“My interest has continually grown over the years and now, in retirement, I spend much<br />
time in silent meditation and sharing the fruits in many ways, including teaching Centering<br />
Prayer as authored by Fr. Thomas Keating, OCSO. Centering Prayer is a method <strong>of</strong> silent<br />
prayer that emphasizes the personal relationship with God. It is a way <strong>of</strong> really recognizing and experiencing God’s<br />
presence within us, moving beyond conversation with Christ to a real communion with Him.”<br />
Mary Otho Ballard, OP<br />
St. Catharine, Kentucky<br />
Dominic’s Nine Ways <strong>of</strong> Prayer<br />
Dominic’s Nine Ways <strong>of</strong> Prayer, written by an anonymous author sometime between 1260<br />
and 1288, are special methods <strong>of</strong> prayer used by St. Dominic during Mass, the praying <strong>of</strong><br />
the psalmody (singing psalms during divine worship), and at other times <strong>of</strong> personal prayer.<br />
These methods presumed a connection between the body, soul, devotion, and prayer.<br />
The bowing <strong>of</strong> one’s head<br />
1 and heart with humility at the The throwing down<br />
The welcoming <strong>of</strong> all the<br />
beginning <strong>of</strong> prayer before the 2 and prostrating <strong>of</strong> 3 physical difficulties and the<br />
crucifix, at the altar, in the<br />
one’s whole body with<br />
patient endurance <strong>of</strong> all kinds<br />
Name <strong>of</strong> the Trinity;<br />
tears <strong>of</strong> compunction for <strong>of</strong> bodily discomforts during<br />
the sins <strong>of</strong> others when<br />
prayer as part <strong>of</strong> prayer itself,<br />
one can find no more<br />
as a way <strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong>fering one’s body<br />
tears for his own;<br />
to God in praise;<br />
4 <strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Peace</strong>
Liturgical Dance<br />
Liturgical dance has long been a cultural<br />
practice among many <strong>of</strong> our <strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong>,<br />
especially our Vietnamese <strong>Sisters</strong> and<br />
our Sister-friends from African congregations.<br />
Their reverant traditions <strong>of</strong>ten enhance<br />
our celebrations <strong>of</strong> the Mass and other liturgies,<br />
broadening our understanding <strong>of</strong> worship<br />
and enriching our experience <strong>of</strong> prayer.<br />
The Rosary<br />
The Rosary is a<br />
treasured <strong>Dominican</strong><br />
tradition.<br />
St. Dominic is<br />
<strong>of</strong>ten pictured<br />
with the Blessed<br />
Virgin Mary giving him the Rosary as a way to<br />
preach events in the life <strong>of</strong> Jesus for ordinary people.<br />
Sr. Geraldine Eakes (pictured) says, “Every day, we<br />
pray the Rosary together in our Motherhouse chapel<br />
in Great Bend for all our benefactors and for all who<br />
have asked us to remember them in our prayer.”<br />
How you can help:<br />
Support a Sister in prayer<br />
ministry living at a care center<br />
Send in names and intentions for<br />
<strong>Sisters</strong> to remember at Eucharist<br />
Sponsor the purchase <strong>of</strong> bread and<br />
wine for Eucharistic celebrations<br />
at one <strong>of</strong> our Motherhouses or<br />
convents<br />
5<br />
The raising <strong>of</strong> one’s hands to<br />
heaven with eyes wide open<br />
in the ancient orans <strong>of</strong> the first<br />
Christians;<br />
The fixating <strong>of</strong> one’s gaze on<br />
4 Christ crucified while kneeling and The stretching out <strong>of</strong><br />
standing with bold petitions filled 6 one’s arms cruciform<br />
with confidence in the indescribable with a cry for help in<br />
goodness <strong>of</strong> God and sober acceptance<br />
<strong>of</strong> one’s own<br />
heartbreaking situations;<br />
weakness;<br />
The standing strong with<br />
7 hands folded in prayer like an<br />
arrow shot into the heart <strong>of</strong> God;<br />
8<br />
The sitting in holy reading<br />
and contemplation,<br />
that ancient practice <strong>of</strong><br />
lectio divina;<br />
9<br />
The frequent quest for<br />
solitude in which one<br />
resists fantasies and evil<br />
thoughts like flies and<br />
prepares for spiritual battle<br />
against diabolical malice by<br />
the sign <strong>of</strong> the Cross.<br />
Photos by Pat Daly, OPA<br />
<strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Peace</strong> 5
Helping Others to Pray<br />
Spiritual Direction<br />
Spiritual Direction has become increasingly more popular in the<br />
Catholic Church since the days after the Second Vatican Council,<br />
but it is actually an ancient practice: across both Hebrew and<br />
Christian scriptures, and in other traditions, we find people seeking<br />
spiritual counsel. Today, the term “spiritual companionship”<br />
more aptly describes the practice where individuals seek to share<br />
their spiritual journey with another, exploring with a trained spiritual director where God’s presence<br />
might be seen in their lives and how God might be calling them. Through one-to-one sessions,<br />
a spiritual director can help individuals grow closer in their relationship to God.<br />
“Spiritual direction is about noticing the presence <strong>of</strong> God in and around us – God is always<br />
being and doing so much more than we are aware <strong>of</strong>,” reflects Sr. Noel Toomey (pictured, left),<br />
who both is a spiritual director and sees a spiritual director. “I go to spiritual direction to keep<br />
expanding my awareness <strong>of</strong> God."<br />
Pastoral Ministry<br />
As a pastoral associate, Sr. Nancy Ames (pictured, right) utilizes creative<br />
ways to help others to pray. For a number <strong>of</strong> years, she has <strong>of</strong>fered a weekly<br />
scripture class, where participants gather to read the upcoming Sunday’s<br />
scriptures and discuss their importance and how they apply to daily life.<br />
After exploring the passage’s meaning, everyone has an opportunity to reflect<br />
on it and discuss the words or phrases that speak to them. “I am always<br />
looking for new ways to help others along their spiritual journeys,”<br />
says Sr. Nancy. “Areas <strong>of</strong> interest aren’t the same for one person as another,<br />
but we must continue to ‘feed’ people by <strong>of</strong>fering a variety <strong>of</strong> spiritual opportunities.”<br />
Taizé Prayer<br />
“One way we reach out to the community in prayer is in <strong>of</strong>fering Taizé<br />
Prayer times at our Akron Motherhouse. Taizé Prayer is an ecumenical<br />
form <strong>of</strong> prayer that is meant to foster reconciliation and peace among all<br />
people. Gathered by candle light in the presence <strong>of</strong> Christ, we sing uncomplicated<br />
repetitive songs. We listen to God’s Word and bring our joys<br />
and sorrows to the cross. In contemplation and silence, the mystery <strong>of</strong><br />
God becomes tangible through the beauty <strong>of</strong> simplicity and quiet.”<br />
Madeleine Breen, OPA<br />
Akron, Ohio<br />
The Akron Motherhouse has been <strong>of</strong>fering Taizé Prayer since 2005. Associate Madeleine Breen and<br />
Sr. Jan Schlichting facilitate the services.<br />
6 <strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Peace</strong>
Chaplaincy<br />
The ministry <strong>of</strong> chaplaincy – whether in a hospital, nursing home, prison,<br />
or other setting – is about tending to the spiritual needs <strong>of</strong> an individual or<br />
family experiencing particular challenges in their current environment, <strong>of</strong>ten<br />
on a temporary basis. Chaplains frequently deal with people in crisis, and<br />
more <strong>of</strong>ten than not are simply listening companions, <strong>of</strong>fering open ears<br />
and hearts and the reassurance <strong>of</strong> God’s loving presence.<br />
With years <strong>of</strong> experience in chaplaincy and other ministries as a spiritual<br />
companion, Sr. Diane McOsker (pictured, left) shares, “To be present at vulnerable moments, wanting<br />
to bring hope and meaning to a person’s cross, is a source <strong>of</strong> inspiration and pure privilege.”<br />
Providing Space to Pray<br />
One way we provide space for prayer is through our hermitage at Heartland<br />
Farm in Pawnee Rock, Kansas (pictured). “A hermitage, as we use it, is a ‘private<br />
place apart,’” explains Sr. Terry Wasinger, “...a place where a person can be totally<br />
alone to reflect and pray.” This hermitage was built from straw bales and<br />
plaster in 1994 and is situated in a pasture near a small creek and bridge that<br />
leads to Heartland’s prayer labyrinth. The hermitage is used not only by our <strong>Sisters</strong>,<br />
but also by others searching for a place <strong>of</strong> solitude and peace. “People have booked it for<br />
various lengths <strong>of</strong> time,” comments Sr. Terry. “from overnight to one month.”<br />
God in the clicking <strong>of</strong> the needles,<br />
God in the yarn,<br />
God in my fingers and hands.<br />
God in the intentions.<br />
God in the ewe.<br />
God in the weaving, for the sake<br />
<strong>of</strong> your peace.<br />
God’s <strong>Peace</strong> in the making<br />
Christ’s <strong>Peace</strong> in the giving<br />
The Spirit’s <strong>Peace</strong> in the receiving.<br />
Amen, Amen, Amen.<br />
Prayer by Vicky Dawson<br />
Knitting Prayer Shawls<br />
An interesting ministry that helps others in prayer is the knitting or crocheting <strong>of</strong> prayer<br />
shawls, which can be used by individuals to help create sacred space for prayer and act as a reminder<br />
<strong>of</strong> the love and support <strong>of</strong> others on their spiritual journey. Created in groups or by individuals,<br />
the shawls are blessed by the creator with prayers<br />
for the recipient said throughout the process.<br />
Associate Anita Davidson (pictured lower right) began<br />
her prayer shawl ministry in 2002, first making shawls for<br />
the Green Bay area ministry <strong>of</strong> fellow Associate Corinne<br />
Di Leonardo, then for family, friends, the <strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong><br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Peace</strong> Leadership Team candidates, and others. “I<br />
make prayer shawls for partly selfish reasons – both practical<br />
and spiritual,” admits Anita. “The work keeps my<br />
hands busy during my down time, but most important,<br />
that prayer shawl creates a spiritual connection between<br />
me and its recipient. I have one friend in particular<br />
who uses her prayer shawl when she needs a hug<br />
from me and I can’t be physically with her.”<br />
<strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Peace</strong> 7<br />
Nicole Knabe and Debby Taylor<br />
participate in a Lenten prayer shawl<br />
workshop at Shepherd’s Corner,<br />
Blacklick, Ohio.
Prayer:<br />
Foundational in Our Founded Ministries<br />
Just as prayer in foundational to our lives, it is also an important part <strong>of</strong> all our founded ministries, carrying<br />
particular significance in our eco-spirituality centers. In these ministries, we teach not only the importance <strong>of</strong><br />
caring for Earth as God’s creation, but also showing the interconnectedness <strong>of</strong> ecology and spirituality. Understanding<br />
this concept <strong>of</strong> “eco-spirituality” is a guiding principle in our ecology centers. Recognizing our Earth<br />
and all it contains as gift can enrich our understanding <strong>of</strong> and nurture our relationship with God.<br />
Crystal <strong>Spring</strong> Center for Earth Learning<br />
Plainville, Massachusetts<br />
crystalspring.org<br />
It was Sam’s turn to guide the group in prayer. Quieting us, he began, “Please put the moon in your heart<br />
and mind. The moon radiates sun’s light to Earth in the deep, dark night sky. Its phases and place change<br />
constantly. ‘Do not be afraid,’ the moon says, ‘This is the<br />
moment.’”<br />
Zadan quietly speaks, “Moon’s motion has evolved, moving<br />
away from Earth for millions <strong>of</strong> years. In the dinosaurs’<br />
time, the moon was closer to Earth; it looked huge.”<br />
Sam guides us into silence and the breath: “Trust the<br />
Great Mystery.”<br />
Sam is eleven; Zadan is eight.<br />
Barbara Harrington, OP<br />
Plainville, Massachusetts<br />
Heartland Farm<br />
Pawnee Rock, Kansas<br />
heartlandfarm-ks.org<br />
While prayer and spirituality are hallmarks <strong>of</strong> all ministry at<br />
Heartland Farm, seasonal labyrinth walks are one important<br />
way this is shared with the public. The labyrinth, a sacred circular<br />
pattern symbolic <strong>of</strong> life’s journey, is a walk to renew and<br />
deepen our spirit and is a tool for spiritual centeredness. It is a<br />
pilgrimage and journey to the Divine, <strong>of</strong>fering a quiet retreat<br />
from the busy pace <strong>of</strong> daily activities. The walk helps to quiet<br />
oneself, bring balance and encourage meditation, insight,<br />
and celebration while praying with body, mind, and spirit.<br />
Shepherd’s Corner<br />
Blacklick (Columbus), Ohio<br />
shepherdscorner.org<br />
Students visiting Shepherd’s Corner learn that all creation prays. Creation praises God by<br />
being what it was made to be. A tree praises God by providing oxygen for humans, a home<br />
for birds, and shade from the heat <strong>of</strong> the sun. People pray in words, but also by living God’s<br />
call to love and give <strong>of</strong> ourselves for the good <strong>of</strong> our world. Let all creation praise God!<br />
8 <strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Peace</strong>
How you can help:<br />
Plan to attend one <strong>of</strong> our retreats<br />
Donate funds for a woman in<br />
need to make a retreat<br />
Sponsor a Sister’s annual retreat<br />
Help fund ongoing education for a<br />
Sister in pastoral ministry<br />
Crown Point<br />
Ecology Center<br />
Bath, Ohio<br />
crownpt.org<br />
A unique program at<br />
Crown Point Ecology<br />
Center where ecology<br />
and spirituality meet<br />
are the Dances <strong>of</strong> Universal<br />
<strong>Peace</strong> sessions,<br />
held the third Friday<br />
<strong>of</strong> every<br />
month. The Dances <strong>of</strong> Universal <strong>Peace</strong> are part<br />
<strong>of</strong> the timeless tradition <strong>of</strong> sacred dance. It is a<br />
prayer form that blends chant, music, and<br />
movement into a living experience <strong>of</strong> unity,<br />
peace, and integration.<br />
Teaching Prayer as a Priority<br />
Education had long been an important ministry in our founding congregations and continues to be for the<br />
<strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Peace</strong>. As we teach students in our founded schools – from preschool- to college-aged – we<br />
stress the importance <strong>of</strong> prayer. Varying from location to location, prayer-centered activities such as school Masses,<br />
daily prayer services, and campus convocations complement the emphasis on prayer in religion classes, teaching<br />
students to pray, to nurture their relationship with God through prayer, and to make prayer a priority in life.<br />
Rosary Academy Learning Center<br />
Watertown, Massachusetts rosaryacademy.net<br />
The preschool children <strong>of</strong> Rosary Academy Learning<br />
Center had wonderful experiences in preparing for<br />
Easter this year. As they visited the chapel at Rosary<br />
Manor Convent each week during Lent, they learned<br />
that it takes a long time to get ready for special days.<br />
They know that Lent lasts six weeks and that the practice<br />
<strong>of</strong> Lent includes being kind to everyone and reading<br />
stories from the Bible to learn more about God.<br />
St. Mary’s <strong>Dominican</strong> High<br />
New Orleans, Louisiana<br />
stmarysdominican.org<br />
Every year, St. Mary’s <strong>Dominican</strong> High School<br />
holds an Annual Rosary Assembly for the student<br />
body and their grandparents. The Luminous<br />
Mysteries <strong>of</strong> the Rosary are recited in English,<br />
Latin, French, and<br />
Spanish to symbolize<br />
the universality <strong>of</strong><br />
this <strong>Dominican</strong> devotion.<br />
Between<br />
decades, there are<br />
readings accompanied<br />
by dramatic presentations,<br />
music, and<br />
dance. A reception<br />
follows the assembly,<br />
where grandparents<br />
and students gather<br />
for refreshments.<br />
<strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Peace</strong> 9
Spirituality Centers Nurture Prayer<br />
The <strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Peace</strong> actively operate several spirituality and retreat centers throughout the<br />
United States. Offering programming, retreat or conference space, and <strong>of</strong>ten spiritual direction or other opportunities,<br />
these ministries represent the congregation’s strong commitment to <strong>of</strong>fering opportunities to enhance<br />
spirituality and humanity’s relationship with God. Clip the Offerings card on the opposite page for<br />
upcoming programming, and check out the websites <strong>of</strong> these ministries for regularly updated information on<br />
local <strong>of</strong>ferings!<br />
<strong>Dominican</strong> Center<br />
Oxford, Michigan<br />
<strong>Dominican</strong> Center’s main objective is to provide retreat<br />
space for youth groups to reflect, pray, and draw<br />
closer to the Lord.<br />
Each youth retreat experience at <strong>Dominican</strong> Center<br />
is a unique opportunity for young people to grow in<br />
their relationship with God, joining with others their<br />
age who are seeking to do the same. In this atmosphere,<br />
they are able to open their hearts, share about<br />
their relationship with the Lord, be receptive to others,<br />
and reach out to their peers.<br />
Heartland Center<br />
for Spirituality<br />
Great Bend, Kansas<br />
heartlandspirituality.org<br />
Heartland Center for Spirituality is a<br />
Catholic retreat facility open to parish<br />
groups, church organizations, and other nonpr<strong>of</strong>it<br />
groups. In a semi-rural setting <strong>of</strong> serenity<br />
and hospitality, the center provides meals,<br />
overnight accommodations and meeting<br />
space to those interested in spiritual enrichment,<br />
educational programs, staff development,<br />
conferences, and retreats.<br />
Martin de Porres Center<br />
Columbus, Ohio<br />
martindeporrescenter.net<br />
Founded in 2004, the Martin de Porres Center is an outreach center<br />
and resource for the local and national community. Since its<br />
founding, the Center has become a community anchor, providing<br />
space for hospitality, spirituality, and artistic expression. Through its<br />
variety <strong>of</strong> programming, this ministry brings together people from<br />
different faith traditions, ethnicities, generations, and geographical areas, with the intention <strong>of</strong> increasing<br />
their understanding <strong>of</strong> God, themselves, and one another.<br />
10 <strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Peace</strong>
Upcoming Spirituality Programs<br />
Rosaryville<br />
Ponchatoula,<br />
Louisiana<br />
rosaryvillela.org<br />
Rosaryville Spirit<br />
Life Center, a 1700-acre tract located in Tangipahoa<br />
and Livingston Parishes in Louisiana, has had a<br />
unique history as a place <strong>of</strong> Christian spiritual<br />
growth and development. For more than a century,<br />
Rosaryville has provided opportunities for men and<br />
women to enter into extended periods <strong>of</strong> intense<br />
prayer, serious study, and joyous leisure.<br />
Rosaryville’s mission is apostolic, <strong>of</strong>fering opportunities<br />
for spiritual growth <strong>of</strong> individuals and groups<br />
in an environment <strong>of</strong> reverence and hospitality. In all<br />
their programming, they strive to <strong>of</strong>fer a nurturing<br />
atmosphere for those seeking a deeper relationship<br />
with God, self, neighbor, and all <strong>of</strong> creation.<br />
Heartland Center for Spirituality<br />
Great Bend, Kansas<br />
heartlandspirituality.org<br />
A Time to Learn, A Time for Prayer:<br />
<strong>Dominican</strong> Spirituality Today<br />
June 15-19, <strong>2012</strong> • Presented by Carla Mae Streeter, OP<br />
A Time to Learn, A Time for Prayer: Listening to God<br />
June 21-25, <strong>2012</strong> • Presented by Philip St. Romain, MS, D Min<br />
Martin de Porres Center<br />
Columbus, Ohio<br />
martindeporrescenter.net<br />
The Landscape <strong>of</strong> Prayer:<br />
Thomas Merton’s Interaction with Nature<br />
May 22, <strong>2012</strong>, 7-9pm • Presented by Monica Weis, SSJ<br />
The Language <strong>of</strong> Compassion: How <strong>Peace</strong> Begins with Me<br />
June 16, <strong>2012</strong>, 10am-12:30pm<br />
Presented by Katherine Murphy Mertzlufft & Tom Carlisi<br />
Rosaryville Spirit Life Center<br />
Ponchatoula, Louisiana<br />
rosaryvillela.org<br />
Encountering God, Self and Others through Dream Work<br />
June 2, <strong>2012</strong>, 10:30am-3:30pm • Presented by Mary Ann Culotta, OP<br />
St. Mary Retreat House<br />
Learning From Our Scriptural Foremothers:<br />
How to Keep God as the Center <strong>of</strong> Our Lives<br />
May 18- 20, <strong>2012</strong> • Presented by Vicky Beck<br />
Oxford, Michigan<br />
stmarysretreathouse.org<br />
St. Mary Retreat House<br />
Oxford, Michigan<br />
stmarysretreathouse.org<br />
The Mission <strong>of</strong> St. Mary Retreat House is to be a<br />
place where persons meet to deepen their personal<br />
relationship with God and with each other. The retreat<br />
house’s primary purpose is to be a living sign <strong>of</strong><br />
the Kingdom <strong>of</strong> God by building on the richness <strong>of</strong><br />
our diversities through varied types <strong>of</strong> retreats and<br />
worship. The program <strong>of</strong> sponsored retreats for<br />
women is designed to help individuals to experience<br />
a deeper commitment to the living Christ.<br />
Vivian’s Via Rosa<br />
Waterford, Michigan<br />
vvrretreats.org<br />
Vivian’s Via Rosa, an adult spirituality center in<br />
Michigan, is a place for individual and small-group<br />
retreats, spiritual direction, and opportunities for reflection<br />
and prayer. Located on beautiful Scott Lake,<br />
this spirituality house is surrounded by God’s creation,<br />
with gentle waves, wooded landscapes, and<br />
quiet walking paths dotted with flowers, providing an<br />
ideal setting for bodily rest and spiritual nourishment.<br />
<strong>Dominican</strong> <strong>Sisters</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Peace</strong> 11
Direct,<br />
we beg you, O Lord,<br />
our actions<br />
by your holy inspirations,<br />
and grant<br />
that we may carry them out<br />
with your gracious assistance,<br />
that every prayer<br />
and work <strong>of</strong> ours<br />
may begin always with you,<br />
and through you<br />
be happily ended.<br />
Amen.<br />
My experience <strong>of</strong> prayer has<br />
changed so much over the years.<br />
In childhood, I delighted in learning the Hail<br />
Mary and Our Father from my mother, and then<br />
more complex prayers from the <strong>Sisters</strong> who taught<br />
me. Much <strong>of</strong> my prayer life was one direction –<br />
namely me asking God for things I wanted in life.<br />
In high school, the <strong>Sisters</strong> at <strong>Dominican</strong> Academy encouraged us to<br />
spend time in contemplation, and I would go to the chapel during<br />
lunch and just listen to God. To me, this was not only a new experience<br />
<strong>of</strong> prayer, but also a new experience <strong>of</strong> God!<br />
Then in my years as a Sister, my prayer life continued to evolve. In<br />
the early years, our prayers, like everything else in our lives, were<br />
scheduled for us; we prayed the Office at prescribed times with prescribed<br />
words. After Vatican II, we began making our own schedules<br />
and needed to find time for prayer. We also were encouraged to explore<br />
new ways <strong>of</strong> prayer. Over the years, I’ve learned I can encounter<br />
God and pray in so many enriching and sometimes unexpected ways –<br />
in nature, through song, in reflecting on photos or other imagery.<br />
Recently I’ve started a new ministry <strong>of</strong> creating videos, incorporating<br />
song, photos, scripture, and other things into brief YouTube presentations<br />
that have been used by individuals and groups from all over<br />
to enhance their prayer experiences. Many have expressed to me what<br />
a gift they have found in one video or another. But what a gift it has<br />
been to me as well, to find the Holy Spirit using me in a special way<br />
to share this new kind <strong>of</strong> prayer experience with others!<br />
Sr. Michelle Sherliza<br />
Watertown, Massachusetts<br />
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