June 22-24 were days of activity and excitement at the CCVI Heritage Center in San Antonio!

Thirty individuals from three countries participated in the first Seminar designed primarily with lay ministers in mind to deepen awareness of the spiritual foundations of the Congregation while networking across a broad representation of ministries. Each day began with prayer prepared by Sister Mary Henry, followed by Sister Brigid Marie Clarke sharing her profound insights into Incarnational Spirituality. These two spiritual exercises together formed the umbrella for each day’s work and the overall purpose of the workshop. Other presenters included, Dr. Arturo Chávez from the Mexican American Catholic College, Deborah Simmen and Cruz Muñoz from Christus Health, Jennifer Lay Reyes from the Congregation’s Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) Office, Bridget Flood from the Incarnate Word Foundation, Sister Tere Maya, and Dr. Denise Doyle.

CCVI Summer seminar for spirituality and ministry

Fourteen participants came from Congregational ministries in Mexico. Twelve came from ministries in the U.S. and four from CCVI ministries in Houston and Guatemala. Some were from large systems of education and healthcare, while others were from small and emerging ministries. This gave each participant a concrete experience of the diverse reality of CCVI sponsored works today. That all CCVI ministries, far and near, already share a common and active incarnational spirituality was increasingly evident and a source of great inspiration to all.

CCVI Summer seminar for spirituality and ministry

The purpose of this Seminar, and future events which will follow this format, is to build leadership capacity among those currently working in CCVI ministries, with special emphasis on strengthening future leaders.The Summer Seminar ended on a note of appreciation to the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word for making this spiritual and educational opportunity available.

Participants were challenged by Sister Tere and Denise Doyle in their presentations on the future to carry what they had learned and experienced to strengthen their own commitment to model the Incarnation mission in whichever ministry they serve.