WYD MADRID REPORT: The Sisters of Life and World Youth Day
Sisters of Life Profile
August 12, 2011. Although it has only been 20 years since John Cardinal O´Connor of New York founded the Sisters of Life in 1991, they have made a big impact in the Catholic world. Their charism? To counter-act the culture of death and to spread a culture of life.
“Cardinal O´Connor saw that in the history of the Church, the Holy Spirit has raised up communities to meet the pressing need of the time. He wanted us to focus on the most vulnerable in society, the unborn,” says Sr. Mary Elizabeth.
As part of their charism, they provide assistance to unwed mothers facing unplanned pregnancies through Holy Respite, a home for unwed mothers in downtown Manhattan, as well as though Visitation Mission where the sisters provide opportunities to sit and talk with women facing unplanned pregnancies.
They further support the dignity of the Human Person through retreats, and various other forms of outreach like the Dr. Stanton Library, a collection of materials documenting the prolife movement.
Currently, they have convents in Canada as well as in the United States. This September, eight women will join this growing order.
How does this relate to WYD, you might ask? The Sisters, in conjunction with the Knights of Columbus, will be hosting the “Love and Life Pavilion, a Home for English-speaking Pilgrims” during the week of World Youth Day.
“Our goal during our time at WYD in the Love and Life Pavilion is to invite young people to encounter Jesus Christ because He is the way, the truth, and the life. Young people are seeking to live life to the full, they are seeking the path that leads to abundant life. At the Love and Life Pavilion we will have talks, prayer, adoration and times when young people can just get to know each other,” says Sr. Mary Elizabeth.
The Sisters and the Knights have a packed schedule for English speakers, a mix of speakers, music and prayer. They are expecting around 10,000 pilgrims to pass through daily.
Sr. Mary Elizabeth mentioned three important highlights to look for that are currently not mentioned on the website.
First, the Vocations Café. This will be an informal place and opportunity for young people to explore possible vocation paths.
“You will be able to talk with a priest, a nun, or a married couple. You do not have to be discerning to stop by. It will be an informal set up, there will be comfy chairs, no pressure.”
Secondly, “Ask the Bishop”. If you have ever wanted to have a one on one with a bishop from any country, this is an excellent opportunity. “Different bishops from different countries will be present and young people will be able to get to know them. Any Bishops are welcome to stop by at any time!” Sr. Mary Elizabeth elaborates.
There will also be an opportunity explore further the Sisters´charism and dedication to the dignity of the Human Person through a multi-media exhibit created specifically for the Love and Life site.
“It talks about 4 real life stories and important decisions that are made and how one decision can change the world,” concludes Sr. Mary Elizabeth.
This event is free and will be available during the entirety of WYD.
The Sisters will also be blogging about their experience at http://loveandlifewydmadrid.blogspot.com/ complete with live streaming from Salt + Light Television network.
Comments
Sisters Concepta and Mariae Agnus Dei now have a nephew, born Saturday, August 13th. A new life that will live forever. Deo Gratias!