By Don Stubbings, Director of SCL Associates
In July, the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth welcomed seven new Associates who have spent the past year journeying through Associate “Come and See,” a time of discernment, learning, reflection, and growing in relationship with the SCL community and its Vincentian charism.
In Denver, Julie and Ted Gerbick and Desirae and Richard Rodriguez were accompanied throughout their journey by their sponsors, Sisters Renee Washut and Carol Depner, and Associate Margaret Faciszewski. Their commitment weekend began in the mountains at Camp Santa Maria, where they shared time in nature and reflected on the past year, the history of the SCL community, and the relationships that developed along the way. The weekend culminated at St. Joseph Hospital Chapel with Mass celebrated by John Costanzo, SCLA. Surrounded by Sisters, Associates, friends, and family, they recited the SCLA commitment and celebrated their commitment and pinning.
In Billings, Montana, Mike and Brittany Paquette and April Keippel were accompanied in their Come and See journey by Sister Eileen Hurley, Associates Tom and Mary Landry, and Janice Cassel. Their commitment day began with a beautiful Mass at St. Bernard’s Parish, followed by a special commitment and pinning celebration in the Archives at St. Vincent’s Hospital. Surrounded by Sister Eileen, Associates, family, and a mural depicting the hospital’s history, they reflected on the legacy of St. Vincent’s while making their initial commitment as SCL Associates. Each new Associate recited the SCLA commitment and was pinned by their sponsor. The day concluded with a conversation about the needs of the Billings community, presented by new Associate April Keippel.
The Come and See journey is unique for every candidate. It is a time of discernment and discovery, accompanied by Sisters and Associates who carry the charism and share the story of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. While each journey is personal, it is also a shared experience, one that creates new relationships, deepens an understanding of the Vincentian spirit, and invites each person to consider how they are called to live the mission of charity in their own lives and communities.
We are grateful for these seven new Associates and for the Sisters, sponsors, and Associates who have walked beside them throughout this journey. We welcome them with joy and look forward to all that their gifts, presence, and commitment will bring to the SCL Community.
For more information about the SCL Associate program, click here.
