Dominican Cluster Chapters

Cluster Associates Gather in Prayer Support for Special Chapters

Columbus area associates

Akron area associates

April 23, 2007-- As each of the seven Dominican Cluster congregations gathered in special Chapters during the months of March and April for a final vote regarding their participation in a canonical union of the cluster congregations. As a show of support for the sisters especially during this decision making time, associates from each congregation committed themselves to prayer and some have been able to gather for common prayer at various locations.

In Akron, associates joined the sisters for the Eucharist at the motherhouse prior to the beginning of chapter and then remained in the chapel for a prayer service. Columbus Associates gathered in Florida, Connecticut and Columbus. Kentucky Dominican associates gathered in Boston, New York, two locations in Kentucky, Memphis and Puerto Rico. The associates of Great Bend gathered in St. Louise and Kansas City.

As of this writing, the Eucharistic Missionaries and St. Mary’s Dominicans chapters are set to take place. Please continue to keep the process in prayer, notice of the outcome will be published after the last Chapter is held.

Dominican Cluster Congregations Begin Decisive Chapters on Reconfiguration

April 9, 2007 -- April marks an historic period of momentous change for seven Dominican congregations who will decide whether or not to form a new Dominican entity, similar to the reconfiguration that resulted in the Dominican Sisters of Hope in 1995.

The first Chapter was held March 31st by the Dominican Sisters of Oxford, MI and the last will occur April 28-29, 2007 with the Dominican Sisters of St. Mary's, New Orleans.

Results of all the Chapter decisions will be announced after the completion of the last meeting. DomLife will report news as it becomes available.

Please continue to hold our sisters in prayer.

Cluster Prayer

In this season of Easter, we Dominican Sisters
pray for each of the seven Congregations
engages in the Cluster conversations
as we journey into decision-making regarding union.
We pray for faithfulness as we trust
the presence of the Spirit in each Sister.
And so we continue to pray…

Come Holy Spirit,
enkindle the fire of your love.
Transform all that is fearful into
boldness of heart.
Inspire us, your Dominican Sisters,
with trust and hope in your presence
as we contemplate our shared life.
Be gentle discernment
on our journey of faith.
Grant us reverence
in the face of diversity
and patience
with the unfolding of our future.
Amen.