Fifty-two weeks a year women religious stand with the poor and immigrants, teach children, fight injustice, heal the sick, share spirituality, defend life, empower women, defend the planet, promote peace, create community, offer hope …
But for one week, the spotlight shines on women religious. Catholic Sisters Week (CSW) is an annual celebration that takes place from March 8–14.
This week, the Dominican Sisters ~ Grand Rapids want to take this opportunity to introduce the values and commitments that guide our mission. In turn, we invite each person inspired by a Dominican Sister or the Dominican spirit of Love and Truth, to share your story.
Dominican Sisters Preach With Our Lives
Holding to our Congregation Constitution and the principles of Catholic Social Teaching, the Dominican Sisters~Grand Rapids stand in solidarity with all peoples, recognizing the bond of interdependence among us. Our congregation sets guidelines for living, priorities and investment decisions that have far-reaching effects.
We embrace our Dominican charism of Veritas (“Truth) which compels us to search for and preach truth as it impacts the lives of people and planet—to be a voice that focuses attention on the cry of Earth and the cry of the poor.
RELATIONSHIP TO GOD’S MISSION
We commit ourselves to the prophetic call of Religious Life. We pledge to hold the needs and concerns of all in a contemplative space, in the heart of a loving and ever faithful God. We collaborate in and sponsor ministries that seek to correct injustices and to effect systemic change for the common good.
RELATIONSHIP WITH EARTH
We commit ourselves to seek right relationships with Earth, its creatures and climate through conversion of mind and heart, understanding that the Universe is sacred and interconnected.
RELATIONSHIP WITH ONE ANOTHER
In a world crying out for a sense of community and spirituality and in response to the transformation occurring in Dominican life, we affirm our union and communion with each other as we participate in, help shape, and support emerging structural changes.
RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHERS
We commit ourselves to encountering and seeking the Holy in ourselves, in each other, and in people of all cultures, lifestyles, and economic status.
Our vision of a just society is one where all of humanity can realize Jesus’ dream that all may have life and have it more abundantly. ~ John 10:10
How has a Dominican Sister or the Dominican spirit inspired you?
We invite you to share your thoughts or story with us.
How would you finish the sentence: Because of Dominicans, I am…