Fall Formation Focuses on Deep Listening

Senior leaders and board members from the sponsored ministries, St. Michael Villa and the Congregation gathered for a day of reflection and deep listening as part of Peace Ministries’ annual Fall Formation. More than 50 people came together on November 14 at the Mariott at Glenpointe in Teaneck. The theme for this year’s program was “Remaining Faithful to the Mission While Responding to the Signs of the Times.”

After beginning the day with a welcome and opening prayer, Peace Ministries Executive Director Maureen Donohue and Mission Integration Director Colleen O’Brien provided a recap of the previous year’s Fall Formation and how themes from 2023, such as Change of Era, connect to this year’s theme.

The main presenter was Mary Anne Sladich-Lantz, who is a current member of the Sponsor Council at Providence St. Joseph Health. The morning session focused on the Formation Imperative, deep listening and synodality. Mary Anne asked the group to share things that hinder their ability to listen deeply and reflect on how they feel challenged by the Synodal approach.

Members of the Congregation Leadership Team—Sisters Susan Francois, Sheena George and Kathleen Pruitt—also presented, giving an update on ecological economics, vocation work and comprehensive community plan.

The afternoon session focused on what it means to remain faithful to the mission while responding to the signs of the times. Sister Kathleen Pruitt said the ministries’ leaders are carriers of the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace. “We need to be able to be contemplative critics, radical reconcilers and prophetic risk-takers,” she said.

A panel of five leaders from each of the ministries then discussed what it means to live the mission. Each person reflected on their own experiences or perspectives. Kyle O’Neill, director of operations at York Street Project, shared that his leadership is an extension of his call to service. Anne Price, program manager for Waterspirit, agreed that she feels called to lead others in strengthening their understanding and connection to the mission. Many also recognized a change of era within their ministry but are hopeful for the future as they remain committed to the mission and core values.

The day ended with a missioning ceremony—a blessing over each participant as they recommitted to the mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace through their service and leadership.