From July 3-July 6, the American Province of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus held an International Gathering at the Renaissance Hotel in Philadelphia, PA. Close to 120 of the Sisters of the Holy Child (SHCJ) from the Society’s American Province attended, along with 20 SHCJ from the African and European Provinces, and a number of Associates.

During the three days of meeting, the sisters worked intensely sharing their hopes and fears for the future direction of the Society. In vibrant liturgies, the gospel was broken open for them, and in between, there were many joyful encounters, deepening their awareness of belonging to an international congregation.

The Sisters grappled with four key issues: how to more fully become one Society for mission when the SHCJ live and serve throughout the world; how to encourage vocations to the Society and extend the spirit of Cornelia Connelly, the Foundress of the Society; Creation; and how to best use financial and personnel resources.

At the end of the Gathering, one sister expressed the hope that the momentum generated during these days together would enable the Society’s American Province to move ahead. Others commented on a new openness and honesty. “Every time we get together, we seem to listen and speak out better,” said one.

The SHCJ will spend the next year discussing the issues at hand. At their meeting of the Province (Provincial Chapter) next summer, they will formulate proposals to go to the decision-making body: the General Chapter of 2010.