Aquinas Community Chapter Minutes
March 11, 2017
Present: Joann Boneski, Leona DeBoer, Diane Dupee, Francis Irene Fair, Barbara Hamilton, Cecilia James Hayes, Ann Jerome Kociolek, Margaret Charles Kociolek, Philomena McCartney, Juanita Marie Morales, Ceil Murray, Ann Sakac, Maureen Sullivan, Mary Ellen Wisner.
Absent: John Catherine Arnold, June Baker, Mary Ann Cirillo, Bernadette Connor, Eileen Duffy, Mary Geiger, Patricia Marcone, Mary Gilbert Snide, Doris Thibault.
Member Changes: Mary Gilbert Snide will be a prayer member; Ann Marie Ryan and Ann Stankiewicz will move to the Wartburg Community Chapters.
Morning Session
Ceil Murray welcomed the group and gave an overview of the agenda. Maureen Sullivan led the prayer service and reflection on our role as “prophets” today which set the tone for the content for the day.
Ceil proceeded to the process for Direction 3 which included a contemplative period of personal reflection. A lengthy discussion followed and summary statements were formed in answer to the questions on the personal reflection sheet: What are the skills and gifts necessary for those whom we send to Extended Leadership based on the last two paragraphs of the Evolution of Extended Leadership handout? How will our Community Chapter be responsible for assisting the Extended Leadership experience?
Afternoon Session
A review of the morning and revision of the statements began the afternoon session. Members agreed that the final statements were reflecting the reflection and discussion of the morning.
Ceil introduced the topic of Racism with reference to the handout article, Racial Mercy, the Heart of the Matter. It was agreed that the article was an education piece. Ceil shared her introduction to racism experience and others contributed their experiences or shared readings and conversations they viewed, or read.
Discussion followed on the “Doctrine of Discovery” explained in the article. All agreed that this doctrine is a revelation and were amazed that it is still in effect. The conversation surrounding the issue resulted in the proposal of an action step. However, it seems that LCWR will be taking action. Therefore, this Community Chapter strongly supports any action to deconstruct the doctrine that may be taken by Leadership in response to an LCWR action step.
Other Suggestions: It was suggested that Leadership respond in an email to the Coordinator when an issue is raised or a question is directed to the Council. This would eliminate misunderstandings and encourage mutual communication.
Prayer partners and prayer members were clarified. Prayer members were identified and individuals volunteered to contact each person and give her the highlights of the meeting.
Business Meeting: Ceil called for approval of the Minutes for the October meeting. Leona so moved and Diane seconded the motion.
Updates on the Heritage Project were given by Ceil. Donna invites others to work on the quilting project. A coordinator for the project is being sought.
Next Meeting: October 14, 2017 – Aquinas Hall 9:00 Coffee, Tea, etc. 9:30
Facilitator: Cecilia James Hayes
Prayer: Barbara Hamilton
Secretary: Mary Geiger
Respectfully submitted,
Philomena Marie, OP