IPA 8th Assembly

Saturday - Very warm again today but we didn't get to see too much of it....

The new Assembly website added below!

8th Assembly Website

Two new reports added here!

IPA 8TH Assembly Reports

Day 7 Saturday

WE ARE ALL IPA

Dear Sisters and Friends,

Today was a very busy day, perhaps the busiest day thus far. The larger group was broken up into three smaller groups. I attended the group with all of the Justice Contacts and our work today was to make some recommendations based on the listening during the week. We are being guided and led by the Spirit. It's about a discerned emergence as the collective wisdom of the Assembly knowing that we have been heard.

These recommendations would then be taken into account during final deliberations from which we hope will come the new IPA Commitments. We have been told that the final commitments will take some time. At the last Assembly in Sydney we left with the commitments already articulated, or very nearly. The process is different this time and this will mean that there will be more discussions to consider what has emerged. This further discernment only offers surety of foot as we begin our next steps together. So patience and a period of quiet and reflective waiting will help.

You can check out International Presentation Association website with photos and more.

There remains some outstanding pieces and I will over the next week or so, reorganise this blog into separate days and then I will send the final version to all. We have had readers from all over the world. In time, each of the Units will do like we have done and bring the news of the IPA home to all and to those who have this job to do please feel free to use whatever you find in this blog that might help you to help all at home to know a little more our work in Newfoundland in June of 2023 knowing that WE ARE ALL IPA.

Feel free to share with those who do not have the gift of the internet but who would love to be kept in the loop.

If you're asked for a password for the IPA website then use Listen! or listen!

You can check out the IPA Facebook Page HERE

Brian

Day 7 Saturday

June 24th 2023

In our Justice Contacts Group we began by identifying those issues which concerned us most.

We then took some time to look at the Justice Contact's role and it is very apparent to all that Justice Contacts have different work in different parts of the world. For some of the Srs., who are Justice Contacts, it might well be a case that they have this role on top of many others roles that take up their time. In some cases the Sisters who are in mission may have to travel very long distances to do their work and travelling to and from their work might indeed be dangerous. We listened to one Sister who described her physical act of walking. It was a purposeful decision to walk gently, with no obvious rushing, showing no real urgency or purpose and this is a way of being that comes across as non-threatening and in this way there is a less likely chance that the Sisters will be stopped and queried on their work and intention. In Ireland I have the freedom to openly criticise our government without fear of recrimination. This is not the case in many of our IPA countries. In some IPA countries, to speak out against a government might endanger the mission and the Sisters. Bank accounts could be closed down or charitable status withdrawn. So how then, can we put in place a Justice Contact Role that would and could cover all we do? So perhaps the most appropriate way forward might be to set down some underlying principles that inform our work knowing that the detail of the description could be completed locally in response to local needs, ability and context.

In Australia, they have created a simpler template that can inform any developed role for Justice Contacts taking into account the local context.

On the issue of deciding on the future of the Focus Groups. It has been decided to add one other grouping, Dignity for all and this group would be the natural home to those areas of work where the Presentation Sisters work may not fit easily into one of the thee existing Focus Groups.

Sr. Dorothy Scesny from the US Unit.

When we came back into the larger group for the Closing ceremony all three groups were asked to offer their recommendations.

The recommendations from the Justice Contacts Group can be seen below.

Justice Contacts recommendations..pdf

The deliberations from the Third Delegates Group can be read below.

6.24.2023 Third Delegates FINAL.pdf

The Trustees Group was the one group that could actually make decisions at this meeting and they have made some changes that will in time be published. You should know though, that the board of three will be expanded to include both Sisters and Lay Presentation People in time.

Closing Ceremony

Patti, Sandy, Eleanor and Eleanor the IPA Band!

Our anthem for the week

The Sisters of Newfoundland offered all attendees a special gift of an inukshuk that can be seen below.

Sr. Lily Pushpam from South India performed a ritual dance as part of the closing ceremony. You can see this below.

We were all invited to plant seed, nasturtium, I think, somebody can come back to correct me if they know for sure. These seeds are symbolic of the green shoots that we saw emerging this week and the plants will be nurtured by Presentation People in Virginia Water.

As we came to the end of the Assembly we were addressed by the Directors, each in turn offered their thanks for work done and offered their ongoing and full commitment to the next steps.

I am staying with the Sisters in Mary Queen of the World about 20 minutes outside the city centre with Sr. Clo Martin the IPA Justice Contact for Newfoundland. In their dining room they have this wonderful image of the last supper but at the table in the picture below are women and children. Much more inclusive and culturally appropriate which was a constant mantra during this IPA Assembly. The picture below has been published by The Last Supper by Bohdan Piasecki, 1998 - Distributed by Avoca Publishers Ireland.

In Mary Queen of the World [a great name for a school and convent] I met with Sr. Paula Delahunty who offered a little more on the Gathering Place.

The Gathering Place

Click to read this piece

Preamble

The Gathering Place grew out of a ministry that Sister Evangelista King began in 1977. For some years people who were ’down on their luck’ had been coming to our Convents, both Presentation and Mercy and to the Priest houses in the city, for something to eat. At the time all we could do to respond to their plight was to give them a sandwich and a container of juice which they would take with them and eat as they walked the street or in a little shelter which they found near the church. There they ate what had been given to them.

Sister Evangelista who had a ‘heart for the poor’ must have been touched by these people, mainly men, and wanted to do something to show some dignity to them while at the same time responding to their need to be fed. She found a space under the steps of the Motherhouse and transformed it into a ‘dining room’ where the people could come and sit down to a table and eat. This room had an entrance from outside under the steps. For 14 years, from 1977- 1991, Sister Evangelista continued this ministry. By then she was ‘up in years” and could no longer continue with this work.

The Birth of the Gathering Place

The needs of the poor, especially for food, still continued to be a manifest in the number of people affected. At this time in our history, many of our Sisters were beginning to retire from school and taking up new ministries. Because this need seemed to be so great in the City, a group of Sisters, both Presentation and Mercy, got together in 1992 to discuss the situation and to discern what could be done for them. A number of options were looked at as to where the best location to minister to these people would be. Downtown was considered but renting space for the venture was considered beyond our financial means. Some of our schools were closing at that time, and the Sisters of Mercy suggested using the Mercy Convent School on Military Road as a possibility for this venture. It was from this discernment that The Gathering Place was born. With the blessing of both Congregations the venture began in 1994- a joint venture with the two Congregations. The doors opened in October 1994. Sister Regina Vickers (Presentation Sister) and Alicia Linehan (Mercy Sister) became the first co-directors. With the support of generous funding from both Congregations, the Project began to take shape. This funding continues to be generously endowed by both Congregations. Sister Evangelista lived to see The Gathering Place set up but was unable to be physically part of the ministry. She died December 24, 1996, two years after the Gathering Place began.

In the beginning, the Gathering Place offered a place where the poor could come for a meal, to have a safe place to relax, play, and to learn. A literacy program was set up. Activities such as pool, cribbage, and darts attracted them and answered a need to be accepted and received with dignity. As the years went by, we noticed that a sense of community was growing among our guests as volunteers and guests themselves were ‘taking care of each other’. It is important to note that we have always received the people who come as ‘Guests” and not ‘clients’. This is because we feel that all people who come are welcome and have a dignified place among us.

The Gathering Place, however, could not grow without the many volunteers who came to help. From the very beginning there was a sense joy of among all who were there and anyone casually coming through the building could not distinguish who was ‘Guest’ or ‘Volunteer’. All seemed to be involved with one another and there was a sense of family. Many of the Sisters were part of this ministry giving hours of their time to peel vegetables and make soup and serve the guests.

Another issue presented itself as we got to know the Guests and their needs and though soup and sandwiches were filling, we felt that something more substantial was needed. More and more people were beginning to notice what was going on at the Gathering Place, and although no advertising was done, the word got around through those who came, to give their time volunteering, and from the guests themselves who availed of the services there. The full meal was implemented which was served a couple of days a week.

To illustrate what happened as we began this project a story has to be told:

We were only opened a month or so when a gentleman came one day wondering why there were so many people coming in and out of the building. It was explained to him that we were offering some food for people who were ‘living on the street, or seeking shelter in bed-sitting rooms or low-housing units. He was sent to speak with the Directors (Sisters Regina and Alicia) and asked what he could do to help out. A short while later he was back with an invitation for our Guests to be his Guests at his restaurant for Christmas Dinner. He would only need to know how many men and how many women would be coming. On Christmas Day that first year, a bus was provided and about 30 or so guests were taken to his restaurant for a Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings. To add to the festivities, a gift was wrapped and put in place for each of the guests. This gentleman continued to do this for over 10 years.

Many stories can be told about the Gathering Place. In a true sense it is a ‘place of miracles’ with the way that so many guests grow together while there. When we consider the varied life-styles and situations that our guests deal with, there is that sense of ‘Oneness’ and care for one another. It is interesting to note that from the beginning we have not run out of food for our guests. One day there was one dinner left after all had been served and another day a bowl of soup, indicating that there has always been enough for all. We always serve a dessert with the meal. One day when we wondered what we would do about that as the desserts were limited, a gentleman came with some bread. When he was asked if he had any desserts for us, he said: ”give me a half hour and I’ll be back.” He returned a short time later with 3o cartons of Oreo biscuits. Shortly afterwards some other people came with large apple pies and carrot cakes. We had enough for the week. This is only a small taste of the generosity that has been bestowed on the Gathering Place. Financial gifts and the gift of time offered by so many has grown over the years.

We read in Scripture: ”The poor you always have with you.” Maybe that is the way God helps us to go out to the needs of those around us and lets us know we are part of God’s mission and Presence in the world. So it was in 20—it was seen that the space and services of the Gathering Place needed to be expanded. A plan was put in place to renovate the building and increase the services that would serve the needs of our Guests. While this work was taking place. We were generously given space at the Lantern (our Presentation Spirituality Centre on Barnes Road) to continue the ministry there. After two years and with help from generous donors the Gathering Place has now taken on a “new life” and many services that the poor could not avail of because of their financial restraints, are now being offered free of charge. These include foot care, hair care, clothing and some household needs, dental and medical services, counselling services and literacy while still continuing the food services that was the original offering of the Gathering Place. With the new renovations, funds had to be raised to cover the costs incurred. Prior to this the Gathering Place operated on the donations of people who had learned about the place by ‘word of mouth’. Now the Gathering Place has taken on a life of its own as more and more people know about this facility. Another change has also taken place in that about four years ago when the number of sisters were decreasing, the first lay-woman to become Director of the Gathering Place was put in place in the person of Joanne Thompson. She has continued to grow the services and to keep the Gathering Place spirit alive.

At present there are as more than 200 people fed each day. The availability of medical doctors, dentists, nurses who provide foot care and ‘emergency’ services, blood pressure, etc. are available to anyone who is in need. All services still continue to be free of charge.

JANUARY, 2021 UPDATE

I wrote this piece between 2016-18. Since then the Newfoundland Government has provided funding for The Gathering Place and has extended services. There have been put in place provisions for Homeless people to have a bed at night where they can be out of the cold. As the Gathering Place has a Generator that allows heat to the building during power outages, the Gathering Place has been designated a Shelter where people can go if they have no heat in their homes. The number of guests that avail of the services there, have grown to 3000 or more. Joanne Thompson has resigned as Director and Nancy Sullivan has become the new Interim/Temporary Director. Plans are also been put in place to extend the Gathering Place into the now vacated Mercy Convent that is attached to the building. It is hoped that this will provide housing for those in need.

The Gathering Place Story

Paula Delahunty PBVM

'The Place of Miracles'

This is the story of the Gathering Place in Newfoundland a Presentation and Mercy Ministry to the Homeless.

There was much appreciation and thanks to so many that committed to the organisation of this Assembly beginning with the hospitaliy of the Sisters in Newfoundland who as Union, hosted this Assembly. The Directors began by thanking Sr. Anne Marie Quinn and the UN Team for all the work in IPA. They were also extremely grateful to the Steering Committee and also to the many many volunteers who worked to ensure that all were catered for. Ashling and Trish were very much behind much of the super communications this week and special thanks were offered for their recording of our work. Sharon gave thanks for the skill of Judith and Anne who led and facilitated us faithfully in a contemplative way to help think on the impact of IPA and on what might be the next steps but beginning with the next right step. They helped us to consider how God is beckoning us, what we might hold on to, and what we might let go of, as we joined in this 'dance of discernment'.

Gabrielle, made a point to thank the ritual committee and the musicians including an Irish Eleanor [Sugrue] and an English Eleanor [O' Gorman] who were part of the daily music that punctuated our day.

Sr. Julie, the spoke to the Assembled gathering by speaking about the enjoyment in meeting all and that this meeting had lifted all spirits. Julie spoke of the sharing in prayer and reflection and that the theme was indeed most suitable for the work at hand. Sr. Julie, also referenced the individual green shoots that we have all found and there will be much sharing when we bring the story and the news home. We have been attuned to listen, to give thanks for the invitation to be authentic and real. In being beckoned to listen Julie told us that we can find the way in the clues that God provides along the way. God meets us in the real experience everyday, and importantly God is making a new way in the wilderness for us all and this applies to us all in IPA as we are ALL IPA. We must remember that the work of Justice is about working with and for those furthest behind and kept poor and God is always on the side of the downtrodden and in this we are being encouraged to be open to the 'other' in the story. We are being encouraged to reach out in compassion as in the story of Nano, mindful that Nano herself was sustained and nourished by prayer. Sr. Julie encouraged us to be 'midwives of an unnamed future' making a difference in even the smallest of actions. Sr. Julie in closing the 8th IPA Assembly alerted us to the fact that God is beckoning each one of us to be prophets of our time.

And as people begin the journey home I am reminded of Sr. Joy's humorous description of Air Canada 'We're not happy until you're completely unhappy'. This was the experience of many who travelled into St. John's, it was a real pilgrimmage, the journey wasn't easy but then that too might just be part of our being beckoned. I had the opportunity to sit with Sr. Imelda from Papua New Guinea whose journey was so different from all of us. Her journey began with a 5 hour boat trip in a tiny boat [see photos below] because the road was closed due to a killing on the road and for fear of being stopped and perhaps being asked for a bribe it was decided to travel to the next island by boat. Once there there was another hour's drive to a local airport to take a flight to the main airport in PNG to catch a flight to Sydney for the US and then Toronto and then St. John's - I think I have all steps right. I do know that it will take Imelda 3 days to get home. I include pictures of Imelda's journey and her family whom I hope you will keep in your prayers. I told her that I will print out a copy of her family photo to put alongside a photo of my family at home and I will do this. It will sit in pride of place among all the family photos.

Thanks to all for tuning in.

Sr. Imelda and her Family.

Day 6 Friday

June 23rd 2023

Part of todays ritual was the recitation of the poem TRASNA by Raphael Consedine and this was especially pertinent in that the word Trasna is an Irish word that means 'cross or crossing'. Given the work at hand and our place in that work we were and are approaching the crossing point, the changing point, a fulcrum or a shift. When you read this reflection think of where we were in our work, at a nexus point.

Our two facilitators who have taken a short time out with a cuppa to garner the strength for the next session. Not an easy job to keep all on point. I can take a moment at my table every now and again to focus but Judith and Anne are always attentive to the temperature and mood of the room.

Sr. Joyce Meyer PBVM - Inspirational Catalyst

Joyce is a member of the Aberdeen Congregation and has ministered as a teacher, spiritual director, a director of formation, a consultant, an advisor and a conference facilitator. She has also worked as a missionary in Zambia. Joyce has served as executive Director of the Conrad Hilton Fund for Sisters and now serves on the Board of Directors of Medicines for Humanity. Sr. Joyce spoke to us yesterday and offered her slides which I offer below as a pdf. The text of Sr. Joyce's inspiration is beneath the slides just click to open. Joyce's piece was to break the intensity of discussions to offer nourishment for the next course. Joyce's piece was indeed very thought provoking and spoke to all in the room on many different levels. We could all find ourselves in some of what we heard and this was the inspiration.

World Hunger 2.pdf

Human hunger, Earth’s Hunger for restoration and relationship, Hunger for voice, Hunger for Heart Intelligence.

Sr, Joyce Meyer.

Sister Ann Marie, contacted me a few weeks ago and asked me if I would be willing to speak briefly about what I see as the Justice Agenda for Today and the rest of the Decade. There are so many issues, it at times feels overwhelming. So, not being a futurist or expert, I decided the best thing would be to pray to Sophia for wisdom to inspire me to say something that is meaningful to this IPA group, so I hope I listened well.

Slide 1: Hunger is a word that has caught me and led me into four of its dimensions: Human hunger, Earth’s Hunger for restoration and relationship, Hunger for voice, Hunger for Heart Intelligence.

Side 2: Human hunger, food insecurity is currently the most visible, so I put it first. I read about it every day in reports that keep repeating that our world in a crisis of Hunger- food insecurity. In a recent 2023 Global Report on the Food Crisis I learned that the SDG goal to end hunger by 2030 appears to be slipping away. I became more aware of this last year when the Hilton Foundation gave the Humanitarian Prize

Slide 3: award of 2.5 million dollars to the Norwegian Refugee Committee. They described the huge problem they face with food shortages, and They are not alone . The same message is coming from all relief group responding to the plight of thousands of families fleeing from their homes because of conflict, climate and economic shocks. That same Report estimates that nearly 300,000 people in 58 countries were acutely food insecure at the end of 2022 and the numbers keep increasing.

Slide 4: Some of those 58 communities most impacted by food insecurity are among us right here and they share the impact of their neighbors as well- our sisters and Presentation people from Africa and Asia and Asia/Pacific. Those in Zimbabwe and Zambia, not only experience it among their own people but are also impacted by their neighbors Mozambique, Malawi and Madagascar, Ethiopia, South Sudan, all reeling from effects of climate and displacement disasters.

Our Presentation in Latin America feel the impact of Venezuela and Bolivia coping too with climate and conflict issues, along with their neighbors- Haiti, Colombia and Central American countries, particularly, Guatemala.

We have our Presentation people from India, Pakistan, Philippines, Thailand and Papua New Guinea, living daily with conflict, climate and economic shock.

The Ukraine War has impacted the entire world as food chains they provided with Russia are disrupted - commodities of wheat, corn, sunflower oil and of course fuel for transporting them worldwide. Because we are all inter-connected, we all feel distress, but in my part of the world, those made poor bear the greatest burden of higher food prices.

Slide 5: What solutions for food insecurity are being implemented? Scientists and international relief organizations are busily looking for “fixes” to “modify” food that may be filled with calories, but not are not nutritious because we have resorted to mono agriculture destroying bio-diversity and consequent nutrients from our soil. Now we need to add vitamins and other nutrients to make them nutritious. But these are short term fixes and not sustainable. What about the future of food?

Slide 6: Thankfully, Long-term solutions are being initiated by individuals and local grass roots organizations of farmers, among them sisters. Together they are all responding to the second, but actually, the most basic hunger that needs addressing! The hunger of the earth for relationship and restoration. As we regain right relationship to the earth and help it become restored, the hunger of families and communities will be satisfied. Nutritious, not just calorie dominated food will be their fare. Our earth hungers to be restored, brought back to life with all the missing microbes needed to produce healthful food. Nutritious food will also mitigate many of the health care needs that bleed away so many families’ resources these days.

These grassroot movements around the world are engaging in regenerative, permaculture and restorative farming. They have learned that It is our soil that hungers for regeneration and relationship with us, and they are willing to take the time and effort to restore those relationships.

However, the voices of Resistance are also there, because profit is needed now, and the risk to change is too great. Their solution is to keep buying more land to plant the four major crops that provide our food: wheat, corn, soy and rice and deplete the soil. But, Small farmers in the global south are at a disadvantage. They do not have capital to add large tracts of land. Most have only a few acres, and yet ironically, they are among those taking the first steps to restore relationship with the earth, soil and the bio-diversity of nature.

Slide 7: A third hunger is the longing of women, children and indigenous peoples to be recognized and heard, but this takes time and listening, something dominant cultures do not seem to value as they continue to seek quick fixes and profit. Quick fixes depend primarily on brain intelligence. But listening more deeply takes a different intelligence, heart intelligence. It is only with the heart that one sees holistically, taking in those unheard voices of women, children, the earth and indigenous peoples, those most impacted by the issues of soil degradation, hunger and lack of health care.

Slide 8: It is amazing to read that women and girls are 43% of all farmers worldwide. In Africa about 85 % are women, 45% in Asia/pacific, and 74% in Pakistan. Many of them are our own Presentation sisters along with two small groups of sisters I want to mention who share similar spiritualities and charisms. The Missionary Sisters of the Eucharist in Guatemala and Houston, founded by San Francisco and the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Sisters in Malawi, a locally founded congregation known by our Zambia/Zimbabwe Sisters and assisted by my South Dakota Congregation. These sisters share the fate of the women farmers of their countries, longing to serve their own people and also the chance to thrive into the future.

Slide 9: The fourth hunger is that of our own hearts, also longing to be recognized and heard. We idolize brain power and yet, according to current neuroscience research, the heart has a 5,000 times wider electro-magnetic field than does the brain. In other words, our hearts take in 5,000 times more information from our surroundings than the brain. We need heart education. Heart energy besides positive emotions includes intuitions, feelings we push aside that make us uncomfortable, the hunches that come to us out of the blue that we ignore and later often regret. Using heart intelligence determines the kind of presence we bring to any situation or issue. For us, as Presentation People, our practices of Contemplative prayer help us integrate these heart energies but they are also needed for our action.

Slide 10: We are contemplatives in Action.

So, what might contemplation in action look like? A book I found, titled Transformational Presence by Alan Seale has helped me articulate what it could look like.

Being a woman of action myself, I want results, forgetting sometimes that change or transformation takes time. I may have a vision of something, but that vision has its own rhythms and needs for space to evolve. It takes patience and commitment. A story from the Middle Ages helps me remember this truth. It’s a scene where a person walking along sees a person laying bricks and comments: “I see you are a brick-layer building a wall”. The bricklayer stops for a moment, looks up and responds gently, “No, I am not a brick-layer, I am a builder of cathedrals” The bricklayer had a larger vision of her seemingly small, and perhaps to others, insignificant action. She saw what she was doing in a wide vision, something far beyond herself. Her vision was transgenerational, similar to our Native Americans practice in decision making -keeping in mind the 7th generation, even while not knowing what that future will bring.

Slide 11: So, what might be a process for this kind of intergenerational decision making? Alan Seale suggests three questions that are more for the heart to answer than the brain because they take deep LISTENING:

1. What wants to happen here

2. Who is the situation asking me to be?

3. What is the situation asking me to do?

What is the opportunity available right now? The breakthrough waiting to happen? What is the situation trying to tell me/us? What is emerging already?

The second question who is it that the situation is inviting me to be? What kind of presence is being invited, what qualities are called forth for leadership and stewardship of the emerging potential (courage, truthfulness, playfulness, creativity, other?)

The third question is a call to action – emphasis on “call”, not taking control, not something to be figured out by the brain; what is sensed that wants to happen can be assisted? What might be needed for the next moment of its evolution? What might be the next step to take in the emerging evolution?

So, it is these kinds of questions that are needed to be contemplatives in action for justice now and in the future.

So, now, back to my beginning task of identifying significant issues now and for the decade ahead: For me, they are the 4 Hungers!!! the hunger of families whose land no longer feeds them, families fleeing from conflict, natural disasters and economic shocks. Hunger of our earth to be restored and related to; Hunger of women, children, and indigenous people to be listened to, to have voice in addressing the issues that impact them, and the hunger of our own hearts to be deeply listened to in prayer, decision making, and action, always asking the three questions:

What wants to happen in this situation? what energies are needed for leadership and stewardship in this situation and what is the call to the next step to assist its evolution into the future?

Slide 12: And So, as IPA, we can ask those same questions of ourselves: What is the vision of IPA and its strong commitment to justice trying to emerge and lead us into the future?

Group photo of the Union

Group Photo of Society

Group Photo of Conference

Just a quick update! I had picked out my new home but I have since changed my mind. The last choice was too big where as this is a more modest offering. It is the location that inspires, facing the sea, on the way up to Signal Hill. Everyone would have to pass my home and there''s bound to be many a great conversation on the doorstep and of course there is enough garden to keep me happy. If I walk up the hill a little there is the most spectacular view of the harbour. See the little video beneath for proof.

And so to the work of the day....

There were to be no more presentations, we had heard from all who could provide the information that we needed as a gathered assembly to begin the work of moving to clarify the new directions or emerging green shoots that would be the work of the IPA for the next five years. There is work for the Trustees, Justice Contacts and Third Delegates but firstly we needed to consider what we had collectively decided upon as the green shoots. Click through these pictures below to see what would be the substance of further conversations.

Moving on from this we then broke into groups to discuss the work that interested us. We were told that we could move to any table, or that tables could merge if they felt that their discussions afforded a commonality that might best be exhibited by the collective efforts from combined groups. The Group Headings are as follows.

Governance and Structure.
Operational - Priority Action Areas.
Formation
Communications
Cultural Diversity.
Operational Structure.
UN + Grassroots how to link them.
Spirituality and Charism
Vision and Mission of IPA
Presentation People
Transformational Justice.

And so for the next nearly 3 hours we discussed, agreed, disagreed, drew, wrote, tore -up, summarised, revisited and then presented on what we felt were the green shoots that would be collated and presented for further discussion to the following groupings on Saturday;

Trustees / Unit Leaders
Justice Contacts
Third Delegates.

We will, we hope, outline the shape of what will be the prescribed path of IPA for the next 5 years but we have also been told that we needn't be too concerned with the wordsmithing that there is a group primed in time to elucidate and distill Saturdays work into a set of commitments that can be presented to all in time.

I was in group 7 and I was asked to speak to what we felt was the way forward. We offered a simple diagram as an aid.... I think.

Here is my presentation and below that is some of thoughts of others in other groups for distillation tomorrow, Saturday.

And that's it for today....

This blog will be completed during the next few days offering some of the detail of the SATURDAY and our visit to the Lantern Project.

And finally, there is a respected journalist in town to report on the submarine tragedy that has put St. John's at the centre of the news worldwide this week. It appears that this journalist is a favourite among some of the Sisters attending the Assembly.

CNN’s Anderson Cooper among numerous international journalists in St. John’s to cover tragedy

In other news the children finished school yesterday, which was Sr Sharon's 21st birthday again and petrol was coming down in price and Alanis Morissette has announced a second date for a concert locally!

I wanted to include this, the most recently published IPA report on our contribution to the implementation of the SDGs, locally knowing that this was also having an impact globally. We, the IPA, were lucky to have the benefit of an intern, Michaela, Waites from Queensland who contacted us to ask about our work and then prepared with Despoina this wonderful resource which is a testament to our collated and impactful efforts to make a difference during this Decade of Action for the SDGs. It is a timely decision to report on our work at the SDGs given that we are this year, in 2023, at the half way point between 2015 and 2030.

SDG Project Report 2023_FINAL.pdf

Day 5 Thursday

June 22nd 2023

Before I begin to unpack today for you I mentioned yesterday that I was awaiting the uploading of videos that were shown to us all in the hall yesterday. The first of these describes the work of the 3 Priority Action Focus Groups, Women and Children, Care of the Earth and Indigenous Peoples. There was a lot of work that went into the preparation of this video and it speaks to the work on the ground in many of our IPA countries. It's about 18 minutes long so put the kettle on! It's a MUST SEE

Another new video was prepared for all that spoke to some of other IPA Commitments from 2017 that have now been implemented in full.

Morning Ritual this morning.

Photo Dawid Zawiła and Morning invocation by Mary Oliver

We all joined in with the canticle of the sun.

Plan for the day!

This morning we were introduced to the IPA core team who offered of their experience with some nod to recommendations for the future as we discern new commitments. First to speak with us was Dr. Despoina Afroditi Milaki our IPA NGO Representative at the UN.

Despoina is now in her role as the first lay IPA UN NGO Representative at the UN, having come from her experience of working in a similar role with the Greek Orthodox Church. Despite and notwithstanding, COVID Despoina is concerned that we have made significant inroads and built valuable and respected connections that speak not just to our mission but also to our experience. Despoina networks with Justice Coalition of the Religious [JCOR], Religious at the UN [RUN] and also with the Working Group for Girls as well as others to advance our UN Advocacy focus that asks that we work assiduously for an end to violence against women and children. We are also an advocate for the sucessful and complete implementation of the SDGs everywhere especially where such implementation intersects with our UN Advocacy focus. The IPA is respected in that it brings the voices of experience and accompaniment to the UN, as it is always our intention that the grassroots voice is a loud and clear voice insisting on timely change for those kept poor. The UN can be frustratingly slow but it must be noted that the NGOs who work there, whilst not the decision makers they are the indeed the decision shapers.

Increasingly our successful relationship building with some statesmen have positioned the IPA strategically to engage these listeners who can make the changes we need. We are an integral part of the civil society mechanisms that sets the tone for UN plans and strategies. Recently Despoina has been elected as the incoming chair of the Civil Society Forum, a prestigious and respected role for which she was nominated by others with whom she works. This is a win win for the IPA, having spent 5 years in shaping our next steps the rewards are now being reaped for perseverance, intelligence and expertise. Despoina's work at the UN is varied, from preparing and delivering oral statements to preparing online and in-person events as part of IPA or affiliated NGOs. Despoina has also supervised our research projects that speak to our intention and experience. Another aspect worth considering is the possibility of becoming more invovled with the Human Rights mechanisms at Geneva, work which we have begun to do in the last 3 years as we encourage other faith-based organisations to amplify their voices for difference. More workshops are also a possibility and perhaps a necessity. To finish, Despoina offered a quote from Mahatma Gandhi, 'you may not know the results of your action but without action there will be no results'.

Another recommendation and suggestion from Despoina is the consider the possibility of setting up an award scheme for something like the IPA person of the year.

Next up we heard from Christopher Zefting our IPA Programme Action Leader

Christopher spoke to us by referring specifically and directly to his role, referencing Programmes, Action, and Leadership.

Programmes Christopher was keen to advocate for maximising those programmes and events that allow us to connect for example the prayer services as prepared and delivered by the Focus Group Members. The launches of research projects, webinars and newsletters are all up and running but are also springboards for the next right steps for IPA. There is great, as yet untapped potential, that will only benefit the IPA going forward. The diversity of the IPA people is a wealth to be explored and that is key to what happens next is to play to the strengths of all in IPA.

Action Some of the barriers to action are funding, technology and communications. What of fundraising or an award system similar to that referred to by Despoina. The ability to gather and hold stories is an important part of the IPA that speaks to our work, intention and experience. It would be an aim to harmonise all communications, the newsletter, social media and other communications.

Leadership The IPA as a leader is the aim, we're on the way! We must collaborate and celebrate we must investigate new spaces where our message can be heard and shared and Christopher recommends building on existing strengths to amplify the faith-based voice.

Just before the early morning tea and coffee we heard from Sr. Lancia Rodriguez, our Spirituality and charism Animator.

Sr. Lancia is one year into her role as Spirituality and Charism Animator and spent her time inviting us into soulful dialogue. Lancia offered that this role might be reviewed to take account of the changing face of IPA representatives of different culture, colours and ethnicities. We must respect that fact that we have different approaches to music, openness to other faiths and more. We must question and investigate where are the encounters for communion. We need to create space for relationships and how might we collectively focus on mission? The gentle process of Caplor Horizons was very much appreciated and we may decide that more of this is the way forward together. We need to think on how meditation and our contemplative dialogue and stance are a way of life for the Presentation religious but as we invite more and more with Nano's charism into our family how can be offer our meditative and contemplative way of life as a gift that serves us well to all who join as Presentation People. The role of the Justice Contacts are among the roles that we must nail down for all. The work in the focus groups has been inspiring and we must take our lead from Pope Francis. We must also be open to what it is that the other faiths represent and their work at the UN.

Address from the IPA Executive Director Sr. Anne Marie Quinn complete with standing ovation.

Just a short note here, an important note! I posted yesterday on the hugeness of the iceberg that I spotted and Mary Rossiter PBVM NEP AND NL, sent on these photos of her own iceberg. Now I know it looks bigger than mine but it's all about perception. Mary's icebergs were spotted almost beached on the Irish Loop in Newfoundland but mine was a days sailing away so clearly mine is a better. bigger and more shapely iceberg than Marys. Thanks Mary, I'm happy to post yours here but mine has a character all it's own and I'm particularly attached to it at this stage.

We were then spoken to by the IPA Directors

And they too took time to explain the extent and scope of the work in hand when it came to fulfilling the 2017 Assembly Commitments. The commitments that flowed from the 7th Assembly in Sydney were perhaps the most demanding and radical of commitments that might have come from any Assembly. There was a distinction made between the operational and governance of IPA in that the Operational refers to the Core Team and Executive Director where as the governance refers to the work and trusteeship of IPA. Whilst it obvious to that there has been significant work done the Trustees are at pains to say that there is more to do. There is of course the question of who the trustees will be. At the moment they are the Unit Leaders and in time as we face a changing demographic we must make the accommodations now for the changes to come. The Directors were at pains to say that changes must be strategic, planned and managed and that we need to be careful that changes don't lead us into a situation whereby we are listening to the 'Same song, second verse, a little bit louder but a little bit worse.'

Sr. Sharon offered a piece from Elena Hoye who was part of the previous iteration of the IPA Core Team. The words are prophetic and perhaps allow us to see into the future in terms of what we might become.

Very little else needed as I think this says as much as we need to hear right now.

10 minutes from our hotel is Quidi Vidi Lake. A large lake in the city centre. You can't swim in it for a number of reasons the first of which is the cold. The lake even in the height of Summer remains very cold. The other reason is that there is a significant protected duck population living on the lake and this can make the lake less than healthy for swimming. Anyway I walked the whole way around it this morning in my T-Shirt. 3C two days ago with a promised 30C today. I can't cope with the 'weather' swings and roundabouts. Anyway I got some lovely photos of my lake the whole way around for a change today. I passed my new house on the way also where I met my gardeners who were working hard on the front garden. I complimented them on the work and they invited me back next week to check out the back garden. That's is an appointment that I will keep.

My new house and front garden comes guarded by two of the most beautiful copper beech trees.

Up on Signal Hill today I came across these hidden cannons just hidden from view. They are a serious deterrent pointing out to sea to protect the harbour of Saint John's in case of unwelcome visitors. There are in an inconspicuous and strategic place. In intend bring home one or two for the office. I think they'd make an interesting talking piece.

Something STRANGE that caught us all off guard today. The Spirit of Nano works in mysterious ways...

As you have been aware we have been posting our updates of the Assembly since the beginning of the event and there are many checking in to check us out! One such visitor is Sr. Lois Greene, a Newfoundland Presentation Sister working in Ballygriffin in Cork, otherwise she would be here with us at the Assembly. Anyway the play about Nano that we went to see on Tuesday, was advertised among the Pres community in Newfoundland and Sr. Lois invited a friend to attend which she did.

But that is not the story. Watch the video below to understand the significance of the intervention that Lois was able to make from Ballygriffin in Cork.

The email that Lois received is posted below.

Hi Lois, just to fill you in, I went to the play this evening. Btw, it’s cold 3C, rainy, damp to the bone miserable weather. But I’m happy to share that despite the weather, there was a good turnout tonight. At least a couple of hundred or more in the audience for sure.

I loved the play, the actress did a fabulous job, she was so relatable and believable as Nano Nagle. It had never crossed my mind before that because of the laws at the time, how dangerous and perilous it was for Nano just to teach Irish girls. I learned a lot tonight which I will continue to ruminate on in the days to come.

On a very personal note, and I’m digressing a bit here, with all the economic upheaval, rising bank interest rates (I have a mortgage), rising food prices, etc, I have been feeling very stressed and worried about it all particularly over the past six months. Learning about Nano Nagle tonight, her work, and listening to everything she had to say - I thought about the Ukrainian refugees, all of whom have fled homes, careers, and friends, with nothing more than a suitcase or two, arriving in a strange land, knowing no one, starting over. So I’ve made a personal decision to not worry about things anymore over which I have no control and to focus on gratitude, and appreciate all that I do have. That’s the lantern that Nano passed to me tonight. There are other things too of course but this was a big shift for me tonight.

Thanks for inviting me to the play tonight, Lois. But for you, I wouldn’t have even known about it.

Love

Sheilagh

Dr Jessie's inputs can be had here Password Listen!

Below are Judith, Anne, Anne Marie and Dr. Jessie. All four have agreed to provide a substantial and sizeable prize for the best caption!

I have had an email from Elizabeth Behan who has offered her caption for the photo below.

'Our hearts are filled with joy and wonder, we wish you could savour it.'

So Elizabeth, I will have to speak to all about the prize.... we'll be back to you.

There was more today that we will bring to your attention tomorrow as it's very late and I'm tired so forgive me. And so I leave you with this photo of a souvenir that I spotted in a shop on the main street and it speaks to my intentions..... Keep well all and stay in touch. Tomorrow is a big day...we must arrive at commitments or as close as we can. Oíche Mhaith [Good Night] Brian

Day 4 Wednesday

June 21st 2023

Summer Solstice Day

12.27pm in Newfoundland

Sr. Róisín Gannon leading us in dance outside the hotel this Summer Solstice Day. I really think she was just delighted that the rain had stopped! I know we were.

And from Sr. Maureen O' Connell who's work has been complimented and felt during this Assembly we received this Blessing this morning. Thanks Maureen, it might well have been your kind prayers that persuaded a reluctant sun to make an official appearance this morning.

Wishing all of you the blessings of the Summer Solstice - as we continue to pray for those who are reflecting & deliberating on our behalf at the IPA Assembly.

The jumping off point today was set in train yesterday when our faciltators Judith and Anne had the forsight to ask that Dr. Jessie listen to the days proceedings and events and then comment on what she, as an interested, independent but thoughtful voice might see as emerging shoots or even better still, alert us to those instances that for her stood out as moments of clarity and importance that might guide us in our contemplative dialogue.

IMPORTANT - Setting the Scene.....

Firstly for Dr. Jessie, she reminded us of the theme that she felt explained a lot about our intention and who we are - 'Listen, the God of the Universe beckons'. This will require a back and forth that may not always be easy but we are all attending to the invitation that the theme offers. In Dr. Jessie's view, Presentation people are courageous, resourceful, creative and imaginative. We have an important shared story that we must hold - even if it changes shape slightly. 'Stay true to the story of Nano Nagle', understanding that her way of living out the charism is the cornerstone. Nano Nagle showed us what it was like to be Christ to the people in need in Cork. She could and did adapt.

We are encouraged not to lose the sense of what it is that inspires us. Real encounters with people will save us from getting out of our depth. God is always found in the real. Our families and our stories connect us and we must widen the pool of stories that we collect and collate. Do we know well enough the stories of the structures around the world?

Importantly Dr. Jessie explained that God's mission is hugely diverse and that there is a Presentation way of doing things. True! But, we should not let our identity narrow our prospects. Dr. Jessie noticed that in all that she has heard there is a movement - from service to the poor, to being with those made poor, to working with and for those kept poor. The strong sense of mission is deepening and expanding. The challenge for us is to shape the structure to hold, develop and deepen our mission. We must remain vigilant, careful to include and to notice those who naturally have privilege. Remember to listen out for those who do not naturally have a voice!

This is Signal Hill - a very steep climb but well worth the effort of the climb when you get to the top, especially when there's no fog. I was getting very tired of posting grey photos and so I went up again today to take photos in the sun and beneath this photo of Signal Hill you can click through the gallery of about 10 photos that I took from up on top.

Click through the gallery of about 10 or so photos from atop Signal Hill below.

And so, early this morning Sr. Anne Lane, once again, welcomed us together to begin our work by centering on a play that we saw last night, the story of Nano, performed in the Holy Heart Theatre to a very welcoming, receptive and appreciative audience. This was a real treat for all and the show was to have been performed a long time ago but COVID delayed the promised performance until last night which was fortuitous for all the international Assembly Delegates.

Click through some of the photos below... Sr. Roisin wouldn't sing or dance despite much encouragement but she did introduce the play and thanked the actor and singer afterwards who graciously reciprocated the applause offered to them by saying that it is our story that they are privileged to enact and depict with reverence, energy, authenticity and a touch of humour.

In our groups we were asked to speak to that which moved us or stayed with us from the play the night before.. some examples of what came up in our group are posted as follows....

The humanity in the relationships that surrounded Nano, with her sister, brother, maid, students and other sisters..
The story told with music only added to the impact.
Bringing Nano to life as an ordinary person helped to show the doubts, the vulnerabilities, the fragilities, the worries about the future and the present.
The steely sense of mission.

During the tea break I managed to persuade a few delegates to pose for a photo. You might caption this photo for us.... Below are Judith, Anne, Anne Marie and Dr. Jessie. All four have agreed to provide a substantial prize for the best caption!

The next part of our deliberations asked us to consider the Caplor Horizons Impact Report [BELOW] taking into account three specific themes as prescribed by them in their report.

Culture
Structure
Strategy.

Under each of the headings above there are learnings and recommendations listed in the report. Suffice to say we spent quite a while with this distillation to consider what are the key points that we might consider most important. Further discussions meant that we collectively arrived at a number of key 'green shoots' that I have listed under the report. These will be the starting point for new work as we move closer to the elucidation of commitments.

Caplor Horizons - IPA Impact Report - 2019-2023.pdf

Under STRATEGY

It was felt that post Assembly there must be work undertaken to review and update the Strategy and that as many as possible should be involved in this process.
That there should be clear job / role descriptions for all especially for the Justice Contacts.
That there needs to be some extra and new focus placed on communications.

Under STRUCTURE

It was felt that there should be some review of the Executive Director's Role and what this might look like going forward.
That there would be clarity of roles taking into account the workload and accountability.
That any IPA structure must be culturally sensitive and diverse to reflect the changing shape of Presentation.
That there would be greater communications horizontally and vertically and that the inclusion of the grassroots would be a pillar of any new strategy on communications.

Under CULTURE

It was important to offer a context that would ensure cultural and intergenerational inclusivity and understanding and given this it is recommended that

There is planned coordinated formation and ongoing mentorship for Justice Contacts and all in IPA Justice.
We take on a professional communications person person to draw stories and feedback from all our stakeholders in a timely manner.

During the next segment we were shown two videos either side of lunch and we were asked to think on what they meant to us. I haven't got these yet so I'll hold back on the sharing and learnings until I can post the videos as then it will make more sense. But I will tell you that the videos are worth the wait. I did though want to share my other news. My really big news, HUGE NEWS in fact. I have seen an iceberg - See Below

I'm really sorry it's a bit blurred but honestly it was so small that it was more of an ice-cube than an iceberg and it was so far away that it was more off the coast of Ireland than off the coast of Newfoundland! We have called this iceberg JO-BERG after our Australian delegate who discovered it in the fog during his early morning jog! You should know that when we saw it earlier in the morning it was a different shape and that this was because it had flipped over, and not all the way over! Interestingly this piece of ice is about 12,000 years old and had taken three years to come from Greenland to pass through 'Iceberg Alley' which runs right passed St. John's Harbour NL.

The afernoon was a little lighter in that we finished a little earlier to take a boat trip to re-enact the first Presentation Sisters arrival into St. John's NL. When I tell you the afternoon was perfect, believe me, as the weather for the boat trip was the best of week so far and honestly we needed the break from the negotiations and this was perfect antidote. [Don't tell anyone I said that - but I was glad to stop talking for a while!] Have a look at some of the photos, as St. John's in the sun is truly God's home, it's beautiful.

Apologies, I got a little snap happy, lots to click through here but take your time as there is lots to see.

Srs. Betty Rae, Róisin and Clo as hosts had organised this outing as a gift to the delegates from the Presentation Sisters in Newfoundland and they coordinated their carefully and thoughtfully prepared service for all. I include the script below as the detail is not only informative, it is life giving and energising. We listened to the letters of those first Sisters who arrived in St. John's knowing that theirs was a permanent mission abroad and we learned of the difficulty and pain they had in taking their first steps in Newfoundland. Take some time to read the letters, they're worth that time. As our service neared it's end Sr. Betty Rae remembered the Presentation Sisters all over the world and a rose was dropped into the ocean in their memory. You'll see this poignant list towards the end of the photos below. They are in order.

Bear with me, I'm nearly there.....I wanted to share my favourite photos...Jacinta McKillion from England, in the sun. She won't be happy that these are up there now, so say nothing. Anyway better to ask for forgiveness than for permission I always say! But they are lovely photos so they have to be shown. Click through all for the full Jacinta show.

We were reminded first off this morning that today is National Indigenous People's Day in Canada and you can learn a little more if you click into the article below.

National Indigenous Peoples Day in N.L. is a time to 'come and share and learn' says Mi'kmaw elder | CBC NewsDozens gathered for the annual sunrise ceremony in St. John's to mark the beginning of National Indigenous Peoples Day on Wednesday — despite the cold, foggy weather. The ceremony began with smudging, drumming and prayers from Indigenous elders.

Last few I promise... I wanted to show you my next home.... and my new motorbike...

The motor bike rider was only too happy to pose for a photo on my new bike!

These last few are a mix from the day in portrait as opposed to landscape and best seen together. Click through at your own risk!

Sr. Sharon wouldn't share the sunglasses!

And I'll leave you with Sr. Anne McDermott's Solstice Blessing for all.

Summer Solstice June 21st Remembering you as we celebrate Summer Solstice in Ireland! We celebrate with gratitude, the mystery & constancy of the sun’s generous gifting of light & warmth. Also remembering with gratitude all you who like the sun are faithfully present, attentive & generous in your giving of yourself, in the service of life. Blessings with love & gratitude, Sr. Anne McDermott

Day 3 Tuesday

June 20th 2023

We begin each morning with our ritual hymn and blessing. Sr. Miriam has composed this hymn especially for the IPA Assembly. You can join in with our hymn below.

Sr. Eleanor O' Gorman from England joined the orchestra to busk for God at our morning riituals joining Sr. Eleanor Sugrue from Ireland and Sr. Miriam Martin PBVM

Céad Míle Fáilte Romhaibh - 100,000 Welcomes On Sunday last, those delegates who had made it to the Assembly were welcomed by the Parish Community of the Basilica where each attending country processed in welcome announcing their intention to be present. The music and liturgy were as warm and welcoming as the congregation whom we got to meet afterwards over a bite of lunch. The music was a performance worthy of the biggest theatre and was a real treat for all. We were encouraged to sing out and join in at every stage as we were welcomed more than once. You can see a little of this in the video below. Keep your eyes open for Sr. Jacinta McKillion who carried the English flag followed closely by Sr. Grace McKernan who carried the Irish flag.

As we move from the 'I' to the 'We'

After our morning ritual Sr. Anne Lane began by taking us back into the IPA story and encouraged us to connect once again with Sr. Kathleen Tynan's story HERE. This was to be the jumping off point for our first piece of contemplative dialogue - where we were asked to consider that which inspires 'me' in my work of justice.

Some of that which came up at our table in what it is that inspires 'me' to work in the area of Justice - Family, Gratitude, Sense of Fairness, Being confronted by injustice, using Christs eyes to see the marginalised, recognising Jesus as being counter cultural, knowing that injustice will remain silent unless we voice it's damage.

The IPA Core Team with the Delegation from India

Sr, Anne Marie Quinn with the Directors and Dr. Jessie Rogers

The Ongoing Work of Justice 8 of the Justice Contacts from each of the participating parts of the world were asked the question 'What is Justice Now?' - and they prepared a script and slide presentation on this topic. Each was given 4 /5 minutes to speak and indeed two who spoke were not in attendance but their video presentation was shown to the gathered group. Annotolia Muzata PBVM Zimbabwe was denied a visa and so couldn't attend but technology allowed for her participation. Below is a pdf of the slide show but you can download the full PowerPoint presentation HERE and this includes the video presentations in full.

Final Compiled (6_20_23).pdf

Some of the script follows-

What is the work of Justice now? Clare Axman

SLIDE 1: In Australia, we have the privilege to be able to be a voice of advocacy for the voiceless. We amplify the voice of women, children and First Nation Australians as well as the voice of the land. We are fortunate enough to be in a socio-political situation where our voices can be heard. Justice now is when the voiceless are heard.

SLIDE 2: Lismore experienced a tremendous flood in February 2022. This flood exceeded the previous ‘record’ (since colonisation) by 2.2meters (7’2”). This has displaced the poorest members of our community, the businesses in the industrial estate as well as the Central Business District. Homes, schools, and stable employment have all been impacted by this event. This vulnerability builds solidarity, and a desire to be better.

SLIDE 3: Natural disasters are clear examples of the earth crying. These floods are the result of human interaction with the land. Now, only 18 months later, we are edging into drought, and preparing for the inevitable bushfires we will face. We need to hear the Cry of the Earth and respond with just solutions. Climate Justice is continuing to be an urgent issue in our community.

SLIDE 4: Presentation People in Australia play a key role in accompaniment of the voiceless and vulnerable. We are able to walk alongside those most vulnerable, most in need. We partner with people experiencing trauma. Through accompaniment we are able to advocate for the needs of those we meet. This is the work of Justice for all of us today.

We continue to build our network in new and exciting ways. Justice work is undertaken in partnership to provide support. Our Presentation People work within the margins. Within homeless shelters, food security, prison ministry, environmental education and resourcing, human trafficking supports, family centres, and educational assistance. Through effective collaboration we are able to work in partnership with other organisations to find sustainable solutions.

SLIDE 5: Empowerment is a key feature of Presentation Justice in Australia. This process of an individual becoming stronger and more confident is vital as they begin taking steps to regain control in their lives. The ongoing impact of empowerment is taught to students in Presentation Schools so they are learning how to become justice minded people of the future. We actively teach our young people that people working together is how we solve problems. We are instilling in the next generation of Presentation People the values of radical hospitality and compassion, alongside justice.

In this way, we enable the work of Justice to continue beyond ourselves. Justice now is a faith-filled response. Nano’s lantern lights our way. Justice today always has its eye on the challenges of the future. We are called to Listen, as God beckons us one pace beyond.

Next up came Sr. Rupa from Slovakia and myself from Ireland and England.

Rupa told us that...in Slovakia...

Justice now is Education for all those furthest behind and work against segregation.

Justice now is reaching out to the most vulnerable

Justice now is to empower the women who are furthest behind.

Justice now is adapting to the changes like the refugee crisis and caring for the planet. Justice now is to speak for the voiceless and challenge the systemic discrimination.

while Brian explained that

Justice now is about moving away from the short term thinking.

· Justice now is empowering those who are falling behind.

· Justice now is hearing the voice of lived experience.

· Justice now is more than just words.

· Justice Now needs an intergenerational response and commitment.

· Justice now is about permitting and unleashing the power of civil society not closing it down.

· Justice now is about working outside our comfort zone.

· Justice now is about not being afraid to make a mistake.

· We need insist that commitments are less voluntary and more mandatory.

· Justice Now needs to be robust if it is to matter.

· Justice now is the enemy of rhetoric and complacency.

· Justice now is about challenging and being challenged.

· Justice now must be solutions driven.

· Justice Now is thoughtful and evidence based.

· Justice Now is about understanding that the most important part of talking is listening.

· Justice Now is about amplifying the Faith –Based Voice to speak louder.

· Justice Now demands a just economy – not SDG 8

· Justice Now puts the most marginalised at the centre.

· Justice Now is about advocating for an environment that is renewed.

· Justice Now is about working actively for peace.

· Justice Now is about welcoming the stranger.

· Justice Now is about a politics that is characterised by kindness, listening and truthfulness.

Sr. Libania then spoke to us from North India, and spoke of the political unrest that silences their efforts to address much needed advocacy work. An ongoing concern remains the high number of orphaned children whose parents have died during covid. There is a very obvious display of abject poverty on view for all. Women's rights both inside and outside of the home remain un-vindicated. There is a need for counselling, motivation, advice, help and listening. The levels of violence between tribes is fueled by an uncaring and provocative government. Training in advocacy is a key tool that would be of benefit to many Presentation in India. Justice now is still aflame.

Sr. Jancy from the Philippines and Thailand then addressed the Assembly by telling us that....

Justice now for the Presentation Sisters in the Philippines is working with the Indigenous peoples specifically the Badjao people (the sea gypsies) in Cebu and the Indigenous group (Pediakway- Bukidnon tribe) in Negros, and in Thailand; we are working with three of the ethnic groups: Lahu, Akha, and Thai Yai (Shawn migrant workers).

Justice now in our ministries is strengthening our networking and collaboration with Dioceses and with other like-minded religious congregations and Government and Non-Government Organisations.

Justice now keeps those poorest and furthest behind at the centre of our ministries. Justice now insists that we are involved in their struggle so that we can be a prophetic voice with them.

Justice now is assisting the indigenous and ethnic people of Philippines and Thailand specifically focusing on sustaining and improving quality of life for women and children through:

Justice now is to ensure inclusive and quality education for all, which we all understand can be transformative

Justice now is monitoring the progress of indigenous children during their education through scholarships for example, where weencourage children to do vocational training or university studies

Justice now is enabling children to access education by providing board, lodging and transportation to facilitate children in attending mainstream school.

Our Presentation Community College students assist the indigenous children with education and other activities during the weekends.

Justice now is about giving equal opportunity to girls/boys by offering Youth formation programs for the development of their self-esteem and confidence and by providing skills training especially to women and out of school youth.

Justice now is about encouraging a sustainable and improved quality of life for all especially those furthest behind and in our community that is the indigenous and tribal peoples of Thailand.

Carrie Hansen a Presentation Associate then spoke to us from Aberdeen in the US and she spoke of restoring relationships. She spoke of the need for honesty, openness, respect and compassion. She reminded us that what is healthy for the foud legged and the winged is also healthy for the two legged. We are to be stewards working in solidarity and empowering.

Maurice Lange - US Unit

Maurice’s sharing at the IPA meeting in June in Newfoundland

WORDS IN BOLD & HIGHLIGHTED = each new slide

TITLE PAGE-- What is the work of justice now, in the West, especially the United

States? Betty Rae alluded to it at the beginning of Mass on Sunday at the Basilica:

that we are waking up to the fact that we are all related. And yet, we have not

woken up fully to this reality, and so, the emerging answer is “transformative

justice”. Please allow me to creatively explore with you a current understanding

of transformative justice:

(YOUNG SISTER READING TO CHILDREN)—Let me ask what were the stories we

were told as children? I learned about good and bad. I also was told that might

makes right. I was instructed that God resided somewhere far away, not here.

What stories were you told? And by whom?

(NATURAL WORLD)-- What were the stories told to us about our place in the

natural world?

Well…ponder, who was the one who cared enough about you as a young person

that they spent time with you and took you out to the natural world? Maybe this

mentor helped you plant your first seed. Or pointed out the stars at night. Who

was it that took you hiking in the woods? Who showed you the mystery and

beauty of this planet Earth? Ponder these stories you derived from this Earthy

wisdom figure in your life.

Stories make meaning. Stories provide perceptions.

“IT’S ALL ABOUT PERCEPTION”—Yes, it’s all about perception! And, our actions

flow from our perceptions. Our perceptions don’t change unless something

comes along to challenge them.

Perception, perspective, point of view, worldview, mindset…

As we grew through childhood and adolescence and into adulthood – other story

tellers came along and these different stories provided challenges to our

perceptions. These new tellers of tales were named advertising, entertainment,

peer pressure, and, for many now: --- social media.

What stories are we now imbibing…and what are they telling us of our

relationship with Earth, with those made poor?

What is the work of Justice now? at least in my context---which is the United

States? The LCWR or Leadership Conference of Women Religious has also been

pondering this question and they have arrived at a response: it is

(“Transformative Justice”). Transformative Justice. Transformative Justice looks

beyond restorative justice (beyond the perpetrator and the victim) to see that the

community has a role to play in a society laden with injustice.

“Transformative justice seeks to transform consciousness.”

The human community in the country where I live is extremely polarized

politically. What is common to both sides though is a distorted and predominant

worldview (or perception). What is this perception that is believed in and what is

the basic story that is being told? This perception/this story is: that everything

is separate.

(TREE IMAGE)---That the Earth is material, just stuff, it’s beneath us and doesn’t’

have any meaning or value- unless that which we ascribe to it.

This perception ---that everything is separate--is operative and is what fuels

western society. And… it is deluded.

This consciousness—that everything is separate—gives rise to and feeds

injustice. And the community, if not critically thinking, lives out of this worldview

and perpetuates it. (Our actions flow from our perceptions) All to the demise of

the rest of the natural world, to the demise of those humans made poor, and

eventually to the demise of all humans.

LCWR is saying that the work of transformative justice is to transform

consciousness. That is the work of justice, at least in the United States where I

minister.

Pope Francis in Laudato Si is calling for the transformation of consciousness as

well. He says at least 9 times that “everything is related, everything is connected”.

In Chapter 3 he calls us to shed the “Technocratic Paradigm”: idea of unlimited

growth + lie of infinite supply of Earth’s goods

I’ve been attempting to transform consciousness by challenging the

predominant perception---that everything is separate. I know of no more

effective ritual that the Cosmic Walk---to illustrate a new story, ---that can giverise to new perception: that everything is indeed connected. This new realization can, and does, birth new actions. This new perception leads to the transformation of consciousness. We can live out of a new perception: Sisters and college students around the Cosmic Walk

--We can help evoke a new story with Friends of Nano

---What perceptions are we living out of, what stories are we telling, as Presentation People?

---Everything is indeed connected---let’s evoke that reality by our lives.

Maurice Lange the Justice Contact from the US Unit spoke to all about the importance and value of transformative justice. He reminded us that stories make meaning and that this provides perceptions. Our actions flow from our perceptions and perceptions won't change without challenge. In the US there is an obvious polarisation of action and opinion.

NEW - Click to read Maurice Lange's Full Text

THIS

TITLE PAGE-- What is the work of justice now, in the West, especially the United States? Betty Rae alluded to it at the beginning of Mass on Sunday at the Basilica: that we are waking up to the fact that we are all related. And yet, we have not woken up fully to this reality, and so, the emerging answer is “transformative justice”. Please allow me to creatively explore with you a current understanding of transformative justice:

(YOUNG SISTER READING TO CHILDREN)—Let me ask what were the stories we were told as children? I learned about good and bad. I also was told that might makes right. I was instructed that God resided somewhere far away, not here.

What stories were you told? And by whom?

(NATURAL WORLD)-- What were the stories told to us about our place in the natural world?

Well…ponder, who was the one who cared enough about you as a young person that they spent time with you and took you out to the natural world? Maybe this mentor helped you plant your first seed. Or pointed out the stars at night. Who was it that took you hiking in the woods? Who showed you the mystery and beauty of this planet Earth? Ponder these stories you derived from this Earthy wisdom figure in your life.

Stories make meaning. Stories provide perceptions.

“IT’S ALL ABOUT PERCEPTION”—Yes, it’s all about perception! And, our actions flow from our perceptions. Our perceptions don’t change unless something comes along to challenge them.

Perception, perspective, point of view, worldview, mindset…

As we grew through childhood and adolescence and into adulthood – other story tellers came along and these different stories provided challenges to our perceptions. These new tellers of tales were named advertising, entertainment, peer pressure, and, for many now: --- social media.

What stories are we now imbibing…and what are they telling us of our relationship with Earth, with those made poor?

What is the work of Justice now? at least in my context---which is the United States? The LCWR or Leadership Conference of Women Religious has also been pondering this question and they have arrived at a response: it is

(“Transformative Justice”). Transformative Justice. Transformative Justice looks beyond restorative justice (beyond the perpetrator and the victim) to see that the community has a role to play in a society laden with injustice.

“Transformative justice seeks to transform consciousness.”

The human community in the country where I live is extremely polarized politically. What is common to both sides though is a distorted and predominant worldview (or perception). What is this perception that is believed in and what is the basic story that is being told? This perception/this story is: that everything is separate.

(TREE IMAGE)---That the Earth is material, just stuff, it’s beneath us and doesn’t’ have any meaning or value- unless that which we ascribe to it.

This perception ---that everything is separate--is operative and is what fuels western society. And… it is deluded.

This consciousness—that everything is separate—gives rise to and feeds injustice. And the community, if not critically thinking, lives out of this worldview and perpetuates it. (Our actions flow from our perceptions) All to the demise of the rest of the natural world, to the demise of those humans made poor, and eventually to the demise of all humans.

LCWR is saying that the work of transformative justice is to transform consciousness. That is the work of justice, at least in the United States where I minister.

Pope Francis in Laudato Si is calling for the transformation of consciousness as well. He says at least 9 times that “everything is related, everything is connected”.

In Chapter 3 he calls us to shed the “Technocratic Paradigm”: idea of unlimited growth + lie of infinite supply of Earth’s goods

I’ve been attempting to transform consciousness by challenging the predominant perception---that everything is separate. I know of no more effective ritual that the Cosmic Walk---to illustrate a new story, ---that can give rise to new perception: that everything is indeed connected. This new realization can, and does, birth new actions. This new perception leads to the transformation of consciousness.

We can live out of a new perception: Sisters and college students around the Cosmic Walk

--We can help evoke a new story with Friends of Nano

---What perceptions are we living out of, what stories are we telling, as Presentation People?

---Everything is indeed connected---let’s evoke that reality by our lives.

Contemplative Dialogue - After hearing from all the Justice Contacts we were then asked to consider - What are the green shoots that we notice? See wordle below for some of the key words that recurred.

The IPA Justice Contacts 2023

The IPA Justice Contacts with the IPA Core Team June 2023

The weather has been truly awful. Even the Newfoundlanders can't cope with this. I still managed to get out to the other side of Quidi Vidi Lake this morning. I took a few photos to give you some sense of the weather. It's 6 degrees today with an expectation of 22 degrees tomorrow. I'm banking on this better weather for some brighter photos and because we need the good weather for a proposed boat trip - photos to follow if we go.

World Refugee Day 2023 | UNHCREach year on 20 June, the world celebrates the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution. The 2023 theme of World Refugee Day is “hope away from home.”

The first piece of work in the afternoon session came from direct input from the leaders of the Union, Society and the Conference.

Sr. Julie Watson of the Union shared with us some of the congregational statistics that are important to know as we begin the process of discerning for change.

Sr. Mary Franzmann from the Society then offered some detail on the Congregational statistics from Society.

Sr Carmen Hernandez from the Conference then offered some congregational statistics from the Conference.

Contemplative Dialogue - After hearing from the leaders we were asked to consider the hints emerging that we need to be noticing.

What came out of these deliberations are the substance for further discernment around Mission, Structure, Communications, Vision and more... you can see them in the post-its below that were hung on the opposing wall and grouped in a way that might naturally flow.

The full group checking out the collective wisdom from the afernoon Contemplative Dialogue.

Another Work of Justice - CHALLENGE TO CHANGE is a development education project aimed at young people attending primary and post-primary Presentation schools. It seeks to raise awareness, to bring about a greater understanding of global inequality and to allow young people see the impact of a changing global environment. It seeks to empower them by exploring ways in which their actions at local level can impinge for the better on issues such as injustice, human rights, fair trade, racism and exploitation. By informing the students and the wider community the project will bring about a heightened awareness, a social consciousness and a broader vision and appreciation of developmental issues. More Here

And finally....did you work it out......It means that a home without a woman in it is a cold and empty place.

Day 2 Monday

June 19th 2023

First thing this morning we were brought together through a rendition of the Water Song and invited to bless each other. https://www.singthewatersong.com/

Blessing each other with the water and palm

After the blessing we were introduced to Dr. Jessie Rogers who would help us to think on what it means when we consider how the God of the universe beckons us. Jessie was charged with being our guide to God's beckoning.

Dr. Jessie explained that she felt that there was no way that she could turn down the invitation to speak to us at our IPA Assembly given that she was invited by Sr. Claude PBVM from Hospital in Limerick to to attend a scriptural reflection group. Subsequently Dr. Jessie, found her home in the Catholic Church and in 2018 she was received into the Catholic Church with Sr. Claude as her sponsor.

Over the course of four separate talks Dr. Jessie invited us into a contemplative dialogue that assisted us in this 'dance of discernment' as we try together to bravely imagine new commitments.

Session 1 At first we are asked to consider how we can continue to walk in step with God's Spirit. We are reminded that God's passion for Justice can be overlooked when our picture of God is limited - and so our understanding of God must be bigger. We were asked to think on the interconnectedness of everything and what this really means when we think of God's creation as emerging, as in belonging to us in that we are part of this journey. We must think of God as creator, redeemer and sustainer. We must think of God as a communion of love. It matters that God is not singular, God is community, relationships and love. God's dream for us is an unbelievably diverse universe. Love takes the diverse universe and knits it together. When we consider what is wrong with the world we are looking to damaged, broken and exploited relationships. The Holy Spirit is about healing, restoring, connecting and love. We can be a channel of God's Blessing in our world. In this way we are being called to know God more deeply. We need to learn how to be more fully ourselves living in the world that God wants. We have been given the invitation to live in God's future. God is weaving our lives with the lives of others. Reconciliation is God drawing everything together and he has gifted to us the ministry of reconciliation. We are being told to 'trust in the slow work of God.'

'It's not just who we are but how we are'

If I think that I am being called to fix the world then I might give up but if I think that God is beckoning me to help with this brokenness then perhaps I can find myself more easily. We must consider that -

Love is the connection that promotes flourishing

Contemplative Dialogue - Arising from this first session we were then asked to consider and discuss,

Q1 - How does our work and way of being, promote love?

So who else is attending this 8th Assembly?

Click through the four gallery photos below

A new way of being

'Let me be you, God, for them'

Session 2 In this session we were being asked to consider how God is journeying with us. God is inviting us to come along with Him. We think of God as a consistent God, but also as a God of surprises, a God of the past who has taken us into the future. We must think on how we can be rooted in the past while remaining open to the future. We can and must remain faithful and loyal to the story and the continuity but staunchly open to surprises.

'How can we sing the Lord's song in a strange land?'

We now know that 'settling down' is not an option. We must remember plenty, but forget just enough to allow space for the new possibilities, as Nano did. God has promised us - 'I will make a path in the wilderness' However we must take the first steps. We are being invited and encouraged in equal measure into this dance of discernment. The dilemma that exists in the 'forgetting - holding on' idea is delicate. To be a slave to the past and to hold tight to tradition can indeed lead us to be caged by these limitations and closed to new emerging and surprising possibilities.

Contemplative Dialogue - Arising from this second session we were then asked to consider and discuss,

Q2 - God is present on our journey, but how do we notice God's footprints in the present moment?

From our table we considered the notion of being vulnerable as a weakness and as a strength. We considered the ideas of the seasons calling us to mission in a special way. The Autumn where we let go, the Summer where we are at our busiest, the Winter a time of deep reflection and the Spring as an idea of new growth and new beginnings.

Click through just a few more photos from a walk this morning around the town.

'We should never underestimate power of being present - even if we're unsure of what to do next.'

Session 3 During this sesssion we were asked to ponder the question of 'listening'. We know that God's ear is attentive to those made poor and to the vulnerable. God therefore has a 'preferential option' for the poor and the oppressed. 'Do not oppress the widow, the orphan or the stranger in your midst - because if you do I will hear their prayer.' God therefore may have 'selective hearing'. We are being called to imitate God. We must consider that God comes alongside those who are poor and oppressed by standing with them and suffering with them - in this way we can consider the power of being present. God who is 'moved with compassion' uses this vulnerability and powerlessness to come alongside those furthest behind. We must now consider that vulnerability equates to a 'state of being precarious'.

Being vulnerable means that you are willing to enter into the chaos of another. Being moved with compassion comes with consequences, think of the Good Samaritan who stopped to help. Vulnerability, is a powerful gift, allowing us to hear God and know our next step.

Vulnerability enables us to listen and to respond.

When we think on the parable of the Prodigal Son we can see how the older brother is closed to his brother and to his fathers generosity. Both the father and the younger son through their vulnerability have a found a way through.

We must be open to our neighbour in need. We must consider what it is that causes us to reach out and help? It is this potential for love and connection that brings wholeness to all.

Vulnerability is one of our greatest superpowers.

Contemplative Dialogue - Arising from this third session we were then asked to consider and discuss,

Q3 - Where and how is God beckoning us towards vulnerabilities?

'Isn't it more of a way of being as opposed to a way of doing?'

We, in our group considered that we have internalised being vulnerable as a negative as opposed to thinking of how it can be a strength.
Restoring connections can be done by being 'moved by compassion.'
What is our role in changing the systems? Nano couldn't change the system but what she did do was stay with the people.

Some local interest...

The Supreme Court below, the Basilica in St. John's and the Mother House - our Presentation Convent are some of the very few old building made from granite quarried on Kelly's Island, a small island about 20 minutes ferry ride from the mainland of Newfoundland. Most of the buildings are wooden, as wood is a much better insulator than stone. It is also plentiful and renewable and easy to work with. The colourful way the homes are built is often referred to as the 'jelly bean housing'. You can see some examples of this in the pictures below that I took from across Quidi Vidi Lake about 10 minutes walk from the conference centre.

Session 4 We were asked to consider how we are being called to be 'midwives of an un-named future'. We are being called to be unafraid of the future, we are being asked to consider what is the next or indeed, the first right step? In order to do this we must commit to being fully involved and engaged. We are working with God on the emerging future. He does not want us to remain in the dark but the process is never easy. We are perhaps shaping a future that we will not be a part of. We must admit that to do nothing is not an option and that inaction costs.

I am reminded that my insight is not complete without your insight, and their insights. God's wisdom is to the body and not the limb. It's ok to allow a larger mystery to lead the way and in this way we are being called to co-create our little piece of the universe.

Consider the following quote -

Someday, after mastering the winds, the waves, the tides and gravity, we shall harness for God the energies of love, and then, for a second time in the history of the world, man will have discovered fire.

Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

Contemplative Dialogue - Arising from this fourth and final session we were then asked to consider and discuss,

Q4 - How are we midwifing God's future in our context?

And finally we were asked to speak to a word / phrase that stayed with us after the day and the following are some of these responses.

Hopeful anticipation, Trust, Courage, Openness, Love, Vulnerability, Challenge, Collective Courage, Disruption, Collaboration, Diversity, Cooperation with God, Listening, Providence, Awakening, Connection with reality, Together, Collective Transformation, Evolving Consciousness and Oneness.

The Lupin is an indigeous plant in Newfoundland and there are fields of Lupin that grow wild. At home they are being attacked by the hungry aphid. Also there is untouched Hosta all over the island. At home the Hosta is considered the food of the slug and they voraciously eat all new growth. Both above are so healthy.

The Gathering Place

I had the chance to speak with Sr. Clo Martin PBVM who lives and works in St. John's NL and while walking aroud the city it's hard to escape from the fact that there are so many men destitutute and addicted and indeed many of them very young. As a repsonse to this the Presentation Sisters and the Mercy Sisters, came together to convert an old school for a new purpose in caring for those men and women who could be considered among the furthest behind in St. John's. Not only are people fed daily, but dentists, doctors, barbers, chiropodists and social workers are regular attendees in this mission of care. You can read more about this work HERE

And finally....

I spotted this Irish phrase in a pub window while out for a walk this morning. Do you know what it means? I'll tell you tomorrow. I just thought to find such a phrase in full view shows the strength of the Irish - Newfoundland connection.

Day 1 Sunday

June 18th 2023

The trip to Newfoundland is never without drama and adventure. Nearly all who arrived had a story of their difficult journey into a fog-bound island that has as yet to feel the Spring which locals say has been delayed by quite a while. I offer some photos of this beautiful island below.

Click through the gallery of pictures above to get a sense of the island and to see a few of the Assembly Delegates.

LivestreamYou can check out the Opening Ritual From minute 40 - 45 and then again from 1hour Minute 40 till the end.

John Chapter 1 - In the beginning was the Conversation, and the Conversation was with God, and the Conversation was God. This was with God in the beginning. Through this conversation all things were made; without it nothing was made that has been made. In this conversation was life, and that life was the light of all mankind…

The conversation became flesh and made its dwelling among us.

At the opening ritual the IPA Core Team led us in the procession as we were instructed on the purpose of this assembly.

We were being invited into new conversations to discern next steps, new plans, and new commitments in the understanding that the most important part of talking is listening.

Christopher Zefting, Sr. Lancia Rodriguez and Sr. Anne Marie Quinn all part of the IPA Core team

Listen, the God of the Universe beckons.

Sr. Julie Watson, began with her invitation to all to engage for justice by reminding us of the example of Nano Nagle and her mission to take on injustice where she saw it. Sr. Julie reminded us of the work of Mary Ann Collins who had the difficult work of sustaining the mission with a courageous heart and an unbridled fearlessness in the face of adversity and absolute poverty. We are being reminded of the need to persevere - 'our origins are in fragility, weakness and limitations', but these limitations have not held us back. There is a marked need for all to fan the flames of love and justice in todays world given the uncertainty and injustices that confront us all in the context of the global challenges that confound and upset. We are being called to rise to the challenge. Sr. Julie reminds us that we can overcome these injustices by being creative and by trusting in God as we live out our deep faith. 'We must allow ourselves to be surprised, we must allow ourselves to become prophets of our time.'

Our Assembly will be facilitated by Sr. Anne Lane PBVM Wagga Wagga and Dr. Judith King

Our first piece of work was to introduce all to each other. The room has been divided into tables and there has been much consideration into how the groupings of delegates have been created. Those at my table are listed below. A real mixture of location, experience, Srs. and Friends / Associates. We spent about 40 minutes chatting informally about our work and experience. For most in our group, this was their first Assembly but all were looking forward to this unique meeting of the Union, Conference and Society.

Some of the most interesting and surprising gifts that can be found at our Assembly are to be found in the chance meetings with those people who work in other parts of the world. Each come with their own story, inspiration, and works of justice that responds both locally and globally. I will try to share some of these motivating projects over the course of our week together in St. John's.

The first such project I want to share below is something that I learned from Sr. Gabrielle Morgan from Australia who commented on work they have undertaken in their response to the issues of homelessness in Australia. They have a particular concern for homeless women over 55 years of age who are emerging as an obvious cohort who are being left furthest behind in Australia. You can read all about this work by clicking into the article below after you watch the youtube clip that offers some context.

Click the article below for more about the Gift of Maryknoll

The Gift of Maryknoll to help the homelessness crisisCatholicCare Tasmania is the primary social services agency of the Catholic Church across Tasmania. We have 60 years' experience delivering a wide range of ...

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