Religious Associates or Associate Religious? -- Meanings Beyond Words
After Mass today, I was sitting perusing an "old" print copy of
Have religious orders and their charisms become so stagnant, withered almost to extinction, that they are forced to mergers? Or is there not an evolution taking place enriched by the Spirit, with new kinds of life emerging in associate programs?
I am not suggesting that the Association Movement is a total replacement for religious life but a re-expression that modern women and some men are looking for. Religious life must continue to adopt a model of mutual companionship between the consecreated and the lay person. It must look at new and creative forms of membership and not rely on the old. Together, the religious and the associate can develop a powerful 'new religious life' that will contnue to be a prophetic voice and make a difference in the world. It would be refreshing to see some articles wirtten on religious congregations with new and viable associate programs. I am sure there are places for our young [and not so young, I'd add] ... adults if only we have the vision to develop new kinds of religious vocations."
While I don't necessarily agree with all of the author's statements as expressed, she raises some important and valuable questions, well worth our consideration. I have a few thoughts stirring but want to let them percolate a bit. In the meantime, feel free to share your responses to what she has proposed.
posted by Lisa @ 4:06 PM
2 Comments
2 Comments:
I can't speak for all religious communities, or even really for mine. Rather, I can speak from my own experience which was epitomized by a gathering this weekend to discern our province's direction in the area of justice (which as you know is at the core of our charism).
There was me, the newest one day vowed member. There were 3 of our elder sisters in their 80s. There were a few "younger" sisters in their 50's & 60's. And there were four associates, one of whom was a man and one of whom is a Lutheran woman.
It was such a rich discernment .... we went far beyond discussion. Later I found myself amazed and thankful at how inclusive we are with our Associates, at as a result at how much richer and stronger we are.
As a younger vocation, part of what gives me hope and helps me know it will be ok even as the numbers of vowed members decline due to age is the life and vitality that comes from our Associates. The Holy Spirit is definitely at work!
My Groovy Sisters also have an active Assoicate program. I agree with Susan that it speaks to a living, active element in the congregation. There are Catholics and non-catholics, men and women, married, single, divorced, and gay people. It's a very inclusive and active group and I am amazed the more I learn about how committed to the congregation and the larger Order that this group has become in just about 10-15 years of existence. If for some reason I don't actually become vowed with this community, you can bet I will seek out Associate membership in some capacity instead.
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