Dear Friends,
This past September 20th-22nd, the USCSI held its annual meeting at the retreat house of San Damiano in Danville, California. Present were our Episcopal Moderator, Bishop Mark Rivituso, as well as delegates and/or principal officers of 16 secular institutes…a total of 24 in all, with nine Zoom participants. The presenter was Fr. John O‟Neill of Voluntas Dei on the topic “Secular Consecration: Falling in Love Again.” Fr. O‟Neill was, to sum it up in one word, terrific. Erudite, funny, and clearly in love with his own vocation, Father told us his job was to get us excited about our vocations and I think he succeeded.
Some points which struck me focused on the reality of the complete integration of the secular and the consecrated in our lives, which defines us in the world. They are not separated; we are at once immersed in the world but coming from a place of deep prayer and the vows and promises which we have made. Another point was that Jesus (though of course High Priest and Lord of all) was a lay person, converting people in the world through his kindness, his gentleness, his teachings, his forgiveness, his mercy, his miracles.
During the weekend, topics discussed included the relationship be- tween clergy and members of consecrated life–what were the similarities and differences, how can one support the other, and what could be done to further these relationships. Also addressed briefly was the Jubilee Year for Consecrated Life in 2025. More information will be coming as to how secular institutes can participate, both in this country and in Rome in 2025.
The survey at the end by those present indicated that they were enriched by the presentations, discussions, praying together, Liturgies of the Eucharist, and getting to know one another. Our next conference will take place at the Bon Secours Retreat Center in Marriottsville, Maryland, the weekend of September 26th-28th, 2025. Come one, call all!
God Bless, Sue Larkin
