Looking at What God Has Done in Our Lives with Gratitude, Passion and Hope

We are inspired to go forward with hope.

Recommended Spiritual Book for the Week: Introduction to the Devout Life by Saint Francis de Sales

“Prayer opens the understanding to the brightness of Divine Light, and the will to the warmth of Heavenly Love–nothing can so effectually purify the mind from its many ignorances, or the will from its perverse affections. It is as a healing water which causes the roots of our good desires to send forth fresh shoots, which washes away the soul’s imperfections, and allays the thirst of passion.” ~ St. Francis de Sales

A Convocation for Religious for the Year of Consecrated Life: “The Virgin Mary in Sacred Scripture”

“You have not only a glorious history to remember and to recount, but also a great history still to be accomplished! Look to the future, where the Spirit is sending you in order to do even greater things.”

~St. John Paul II, Vita Consecrata, No. 110

This past weekend from the evening of Friday, March 6th to midday on Sunday, March 8th, 65 Religious from the Diocese of Phoenix gathered for a Convocation at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale for the Year of Consecrated Life to reflect upon Pope Francis’ hopes and expectations from Consecrated People for the Year:

1. To have gratitude for the past, looking at the graces of what God has done for them;

2. To live the present with passion for Christ;

3. To embrace the future with hope.

Reflection on Pope Francis’ Apostolic Letter to All Consecrated People for the Year of Consecrated Life, his Ignatian Examen for the Year and rich talks on the theme of The Blessed Virgin Mary in Sacred Scripture were included in the program. Speakers included Sr. Mary Timothea Elliott, RSM and Sr. Christine Athans, BVM. Below are photos of the Convocation with the various Religious Sisters and Brothers of Phoenix who attended, including 6 Jubilarians who are celebrating 50-60 years of Religious Life.