Redemptorist Confreres & Lay Associates Discuss Collaboration
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December 10, 2021Fr. Greg May, C.Ss.R. led an afternoon Zoom discussion about how Redemptorist confreres and the laity both might better realize their shared Gospel mission by working together in partnership. Nineteen confreres and six Redemptorist Associates participated in the virtual gathering on December 1.
Fr. Greg opened the meeting describing how the Denver Province has been encouraging Partners in Mission (PIM) in two ways. First, by fostering the development of Redemptorist Circles of Associates. The Denver Province now has five active Circles and more in various stages of development. Second, a Denver Province-level Directory and Ratio that define the partnership have been developed.
Provincial Superior Stephen Rehrauer noted that members of the Denver Province recently voted for each Redemptorist community to form at least one Circle of Associates.
Fr. Kevin Zubel presented a video addressing the question of how Circles of Associates affect the lives of participants and how they further the Redemptorist mission. The video features three partners in mission –John and Diana Davenport, and Wendy Barnes – describing their experiences. In each case, the influence of a professed Redemptorist –sharing the Redemptorist charism and mission – was evident. (Watch this video, along with other testimonials, at: https://cssr.net).
In the discussion following the video, Fr. Paul Coury expressed his opinion that the formation of a strong partnership with the laity is the future of the Congregation. Lidia Allen pointed out that the importance of the involvement of the professed in this endeavor cannot be overstated. John Davenport said that the virtual component of meetings for Circles of Associates facilitates a connection not only with Redemptorists and laity in the United States, but around the world as well.
Fr. Greg closed the session by noting that a Redemptorist Spirituality & Discernment Workshop is planned during Lent 2022 for those interested in becoming Redemptorist Associates.
(Courtesy of DenverLink.)
