Preparation for Plenary Council
2009 – Marion Street Cluster
CHARISM
In the area of charism we want to continue our educational efforts and do somestretching to see what else we might do to bring about the “healing of the earth”. Learning and study together are very productive for us.
We think more collaboration is necessary, both within Sion and with others.
It is difficult to say how the charism will look in the 21st century. It will certainly be more complex and new. Islam as a growing reality will need to be a part of charism.
Social Justice issues need to be more specifically addressed. We want to develop on every possible level. This would include collaboration with interfaith groups.
A need was expressed for us to develop our skills at peace-making and problem solving.
It is important to make Sion’s corporateness more evident, more public.
We want to bring our associates and friends on board as much as possible cultivating a mutuality among us. We do not possess charism. It is alive and evolving, a gift to the world.
RECONFIGURATION
How would reconfiguration look?
What would it mean practically?
Would we share personnel?
In 2004, the contemplatives expressed a desire to have more contact with the apostolic branch. This presents a difficulty for us because of the distance between us. However, we can be more mindful of this desire. Perhaps we could send people to be with the contemplatives for retreats, study etc.
Perhaps there could be a series of tele-communications on topics of mutual interest, i.e. transition to new models, spirituality of ageing. Being acquainted with the history of individual provinces that are reconfiguring is desireable. However, eventually a face-to- face meeting would be ideal.
- Yes, through prayer and study. It renews community in the broader sense. Study of the Word of God deepens Tecum Olam
There are many shades of understanding of leadership and membership. Trust needs to be cultivated before strengthening can develop. We are learning just what this “strengthening” can mean. There is no blueprint. We want to allow things to develop. Associates and friends need to be included in this concept.
- We have a tendency toward the reconfiguration of the Americas.
Language groupings may seem at first to be the most immediately easy and obvious solution. Perhaps being in touch with developing countries could transform us. No matter with the choice, stretching will be required. It would require boldness and courage on all levels.
4Jerusalem is a geographical place that is very special to Sisters of Sion. Perhaps there are many hearts of the Congrgation.
Could it have its own status? Perhaps it already does have
independent status. Clarification is needed.
If it is not already being done, it would be good to ask
Chemain Neuf to follow a Sionian formation. Attend the
Biblical formation programme at Ecce Homo.
Perhaps we could do more works of reconciliation or peace-
making there. It might be a good idea to learn from the peace-
making efforts in Belfast.
Would there be other ways of relating to the Fathers/Brothers
of Sion? Could they attend Chapter having a voice.
- Associates and Friends
Strengthening, enriching, risk-taking, hope-giving. We want to reach for more mutuality instead of considering them as an after-thought or “add-on” They enrich us as well as we enrich them.