Year of Women Religious

          Last year on February 25 Bishop Roger Foys inaugurated the Year of Women Religious in the Diocese of Covington. A large group from St. Walburg Monastery, as members of the choir or participants in the Eucharist, shared the occasion with many others. The video of community histories and stories at the reception afterward made for a memorable occasion. As the Year of Women Religious closes on February 2, 2013, I want to share my experiences and appreciation of some of the events of this year. Prayer cards for the year and articles in the diocesan paper about aspects of religious life kept the event in the forefront.

            On July 20 we attended a cookout, sponsored by Bishop Foys, at the Ryland Lakes Country Club. There were a delicious picnic brunch, music, games and scenic rides around the property.

            On August 25 the Sisters of Divine Providence held an open house celebrating the year as well as their foundation day in the United States. It included a picnic enjoyed by many sisters and friends, tours of the property and wetlands and a thanksgiving prayer service.  We also got to see the progress of their new headquarters, adjacent to the infirmary and to celebrate with them the sale of the motherhouse building to the Diocese of Covington for a retreat center.

            On October 5 the sixth graders of Blessed Sacrament School hosted a tea party with lively conversations, treats and a unique bingo game. Handmade decorated pads were souvenirs.

            On October 14 all the mother houses held open houses to celebrate the Year of Women Religious. Here at St. Walburg Monastery there were presentations on the Liturgy of the Hours, sisters’ ministries and the Oblate program. Tours and refreshments were part of Benedictine hospitality that day. Some of the sisters attended other open houses.

            On December 8 the new chapel, Mary Seat of Wisdom, at Thomas More College was dedicated. Although the event was not part of the Year of Women Religious, Bishop Foys’ remarks gave tribute to the religious orders instrumental in the beginnings of Villa Madonna/Thomas More College.

            In the evening of this same day the Youth Group of St. Timothy Parish honored the sisters with a festive gathering. Representatives from five communities spoke of their founding and present ministries. Women religious, parents, youth ministers, pastor and teenagers all conversed together. Everyone enjoyed a “Souper Bowl,” an assembly of soups of unbelievable variety made by families of the parish.

            The Year of Women Religious will ring out on Feb. 2 and we thank Bishop for his decision to proclaim 2012 as the Year of Women Religious in the Covington Diocese.   

      Sr. Andrea Collopy, OSB