Getting Acquainted

There are many reasons why lay people want to become more closely "associated" with a religious community. In most cases, the person has been inspired by their relationship, professional or personal, with a member of the community. Since the Sisters of Divine Providence enflesh their charism of "making God's Providence visible in the world," the lay person has most likely been attracted to the individual Sister's deep trust in God and wants to deepen their own faith and become connected with a nourishing and supportive community. In this age of skepticism and materialism, they observe in community members a sense of freedom from attachments and a freedom to respond to the needs of the poorest of the poor, which is very attractive.

Once a person has expressed an interest in becoming more closely "associated" with the community they are invited into a nine month process of Inquiry with other interested people. This process has two dimensions: to acquaint them with the history, mission and ministry of the Community, and also to affirm their own spiritual journey and help them discover how God's Providence has been active in their lives. Already, a common bond is acknowledged and celebrated.

This process requires a commitment to one meeting per month for nine months. At the end of that period, if the person is still interested in becoming an Associate, they are asked to prayerfully make a one-year commitment.The entire Community of Sisters and Associates then welcomes the new members at a special reception.

It has been the experience of all local communities that Associates bring wisdom, energy and lived faith experience to the Community. As this relationship continues to develop, there is a mutual exchange of support and encouragement between the vowed members and Associates of the Community and the entire Christian community is enriched.

In the Inquiry period, a vowed member meets with the Inquirer to communicate a better understanding of the Community’s mission. The prospective Associate is invited to attend meetings and to study Providence history and theology. Opportunities are provided for spiritual growth through reading and discussion of Providence writings, including the writings of co-founder, Bishop Ketteler, known as the “social justice Bishop.” The Inquirer is invited to participate in group activities and will receive Community mailings.

In the Commitment phase, prospective Associates formalize their temporary commitment. Yearly, continuing Associates renew their commitment and the Sisters renew their vows in a prayer ritual. All Sisters and Associates are then commissioned to make Providence more visible in this world.

Associates are invited to share in Community meetings, retreats, educational opportunities, social events, and ministry. Some Associates meet regularly in small faith sharing groups. Yearly, they renew their commitment to identify with the Community, giving witness to the spirit of Providence within their own lives.