Gathering for Daughters Under 61 Years Old

So, how did a gathering come to be for those under 61 years old? Not 60, but 61! It turns out when the retreat and workshop were first announced some of the Sisters signed up and were 60 at the time and once the retreat drew closer--they had turned 60!

We are getting one step closer to bringing together four the Daughter of Charity Provinces in the United States. This summer 71 of the sisters from the Emmitsburg, Evansville, St. Louis, and Albany provinces gathered for retreat and a workshop. The gathering was a wonderful time of prayer, sharing, and fun. The photo was taken after the retreat and workshop day in the Basilica of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Emmitsburg Maryland where we sang one of the little company's favorite songs--Ubi Caritas. As you can tell from the photo, individuals weren't quite ready for this shot. Despite the existence of email, several cameras were used to take photos and one shot is never enough;-)

I chose this photo because it captures the joy we share as Daughters of Charity in this unposed moment. Many Sisters didn't know other participants before this gathering since they are from different provinces and parts of the United States. However, something much deeper and profound binds us together. Yes, it is the joy of giving ourselves completely to God, in community and serving Christ in those living in poverty!