Shifting

By focusing on the large cohort of sisters in their 70s and 80s, are we not forgetting the dynamic energy of those sisters in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and 60s? As we look to the emerging future, are these not the sisters, especially those ages 20 through 55, who will develop this future over the next 20 years? If these sisters are relegated to the future, how can they create that future?  --Linda Buck in GSR

Thanks, Linda, for giving voice to an experience of many of us in religious life today. I do feel that another shift is also taking place.

For some years now, the conversation among women religious in their 40s and 50s has begun to shift from the future to the present. Together, we created Sisters 2.0 as a place to house this shift. We begin to see a movement from talk to building. How can we actually build the networks that we need to support those of us here now? And how can these networks also serve to build bridges to support those who are joining this important movement in our Church and our world.

This shift is inevitable. It cannot come too soon. And it gives me joy as I celebrate the gift that religious life is to me and is to my "2.0 sisters."

--Amy