Pilgrimage of Hope reflects on Care of Creation and the Cry of the Poor, during Season of Creation.
by Karen Malmsten, Associate, Dominican Sisters ~ Grand Rapids
In a “Pilgrimage of Hope” focused on Care of Creation and the Cry of the Poor, Associates of the Dominican Sisters ~ Grand Rapids welcomed Sisters and parishioners of St. Alphonsus Church to deep reflection during this month’s Season of Creation celebration.
Gazing upon the church’s extensive collection of beautiful stained-glass windows, reflectors described the scenes from scripture depicted in five windows. At each stop, those present were invited to join the reflection through prayer, music, and deep contemplation of the gospel and readings as they pertained to Creation and the justice ministries of the Sisters.
The “Pilgrimage of Hope” on Sept. 17 recalled ministries and missions, and fruits of creation were revealed as we praised God for the inspiring works of St. Alphonsus parish and the Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids, in Michigan.
Sisters Vera Tilmann, Jarrett DeWyse, and Carmen Rostar shared memories from their days as administrators and teachers at St. Alphonsus school. They recalled with fondness the many Dominican Sisters who served together, and stories of the children they taught. Others in attendance were invited to share additional stories and members of St. Alphonsus Parish shared their love for the Sisters, and stories of family and worship through the years. Memories evoked laughter, some tears, and solemn reflection from those gathered. Photo Gallery can be found below.
Jubilee of Hope 2025
As we celebrate the Jubilee of Hope, the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’, and the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi’s Canticle of the Creatures, we hear a Spirit-filled call to renew our relationship with God, with one another, and with all of creation.
Our Grand Rapids, Michigan pilgrimage is one way the Dominican Sisters ~ Grand Rapids is unifying our voice with voices around the world about the importance of care for creation in the United States and the Catholic Church. Our Congregation’s commitment to Laudato Si’ includes our Laudato Si’ Action Plan and nurturing the ecosystems in our own backyard.
Catholic communities across the United States are organizing local pilgrimages as sacred opportunities to pray for the grace to encounter Christ in Creation and renew our relationships with God, the Earth, and one another. Find more pilgrimages below.
#catholicpilgrimsofhope #pilgrimageofhope #jubileeofhope #dominicansistersgrandrapids #DSGR #DioceseofGrandRapids
