By Libby Riggs. Director/Associate Community
After a year of formation, preparation, and discernment, our new Associates made their formal commitment, joyfully welcomed by the Associates, Sisters, and Fiat Spiritus members. They embraced Saint Katharina’s charism and the Associate way of life, deepening their existing vocations through simplicity, community, openness to the Spirit, and dignity and respect for all.
Associates have roots in Saint Katharina’s early ministry, before the religious order was formally established. As women began professing vows, she continued to value the Association of Charity, allowing others to share in the ministry according to their circumstances. George Meagher, CSD, describes this early participation in “With Attentive Ear and Courageous Heart.”
Associates have roots in Saint Katharina’s early ministry, before the religious order was formally established. As women began professing vows, she continued to value the Association of Charity, allowing others to share in the ministry according to their circumstances. George Meagher, CSD, describes this early participation in “With Attentive Ear and Courageous Heart.”
This year’s Associate Commitment ceremony used the image of a dandelion seed to symbolize the Holy Spirit planting Saint Katharina’s charism in the candidates’ hearts. Gospel teachings about seeds remind us that growth requires patience, perseverance, and trust—even when nothing is visible beneath the surface. Saint Katharina modeled this faithfulness, trusting that God would provide.
With grateful hearts, we welcome our new Associates:
Reverend Jo Ann Barker – Suwannee, TN
Tony Englert – Crown Point, IN
Lee Ann Hand – Donaldson, IN
Eileen Wayte – Gary, IN
May their commitment to both the Associate Community and the Spiritual Family of Saint Katharina take root and flourish. Together, we carry Saint Katharina’s charism into the world as we walk in faith, share our gifts and talents, and bring love and justice to the world!