CHARLESTON—The Sisters of Charity of Our Lady of Mercy from the Diocese of Charleston attended a federation meeting in Leavenworth, Kan., on June 12-16. The theme was “Courageous Charity-Deepening Collaboration”.
The Sisters of Charity Federation is a gathering of women religious congregation leaders.
Sister Mary Joseph Ritter, general superior of the South Carolina congregation, said the group explored ways to support and effect systemic change, approved a new strategic plan, and established guidelines for initiating new collaborative ministries.
“Significant time was spent reflecting on the challenge of living the mission of Jesus as women religious of the Church in today’s world,” she said.
The federation is made up of congregations of women religious in the United States and Canada who trace their roots to the tradition of charity founded by St. Vincent de Paul, St. Louise de Marillac and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. It has status as a non-governmental organization at the United Nations. Sister Caroljean Willie, a Sister of Charity of Cincinnati, represents the group at the UN and facilitates participation by the members in current issues of concern.
Representing more than 3,400 members with missions in 26 countries, the federation includes 11 congregations of Sisters of Charity and two provinces of Daughters of Charity. The sisters serve in diverse ministries advocating for social and economic development, human rights, peace and environmental sustainability, especially for people living in poverty.