A Compassionate Service Experience

March 22, 2007

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Jennifer Roseman, Director of Communications & Development
(509) 474-2395 or (509) 994-5032

For photo availability, contact Jennifer Roseman

Sisters and laywomen bring in the New Year in hands-on ministry

Nine women, mostly in their 20s and 30s, gathered overnight in Seattle with the Sisters of Providence on December 30 for A Compassionate Service Experience for a New Year, 24 hours combining presentation, prayer and hands-on ministry.

“As a vocation minister, I am always looking for creative ways to invite young people to a ‘Come and See’ experience, said Beatrice LaFramboise, SP, a member of the Sisters of Providence Vocation Team. “I suggested that we do a live-in weekend experience where we would pray, be of service and live together.

“I got the idea from a 7-11 ministry day concept where women and men interested in religious life go to different ministries and meet the sisters, brothers and priests in their environment.

The women met at St. Joseph Residence in West Seattle on Friday evening, beginning with a presentation on the spirituality of the sisters’ foundress, Blessed Emilie Gamelin. Then they shared dinner and watch a DVD on the spirituality of the Sisters of Providence, followed by a Holy Hour in the chapel.

“We gave thanks for the opportunities for service we have enjoyed this past year,” said Clare Lentz, SP, a member of the Vocation Team, “and then we looked forward to how God may be calling us to serve in the new year.”