Spirituality
PrintSpirituality involves the whole person and the whole of our lives and relationships. Sisters of Charity, whatever their ministry, are enmeshed in the lives of God’s people and together we are on a journey of listening and discovery.
Thus, Spirituality is what we do with the Spirit who dwells within each one of us. Hence, spiritual development is an integral part of being human and will be manifested in many ways in different people and different cultures. It is something vital and a non-negotiable part of our humanity. All of us have a spirituality, either a life giving one or a destructive one. It involves a journey both inwards and outwards.
In the lived experience of Sisters of Charity who are called to be contemplatives in action, the ministry of spirituality comes alive today as we live in community and share in the everyday struggles of human interaction as well as in faith nurturing experiences. Our actions lead us to greater integration or to disintegration, to strengthening or weakening our relationship with God, others and our world. Our story intertwines with the larger story of Jesus who is our model and guide.
In this context the ministry of spirituality comes alive for us today as we minister to each other and to all with whom we have contact. Following a long tradition where the first sisters ministered to the convict women in Parramatta gaol, today in whatever ministry we undertake, we are present to witness God’s love for each and every one.
Today, many express a real yearning for a deeper meaning in their lives. And in response to this seeking, Sisters gather with people, in their homes, or in Centres created for ongoing prayer and faith development, to reflect together on their lives and deeper desires. They offer spiritual companioning in the context of retreat or in parish settings, on a monthly or an annual basis. Various leadership teams and staff spend time deepening their own spirit with a view to being better able to share with all whom they meet and serve. Whatever the walk of life, whatever the religious affiliation, people become more grounded in their own person and in touch with their spirit.
Currajeen [Spring of Living Water] is on the northern outskirts of Melbourne. It is a place of welcome and hospitality, a place of quiet, of personal reflection and prayer; it is a place able to respond to the individual’s need. It is home to two Sisters of Charity.
You will find more inforamtion and an application form to join the retreats here: CURRAJEEN BROCHURE 2018 – A4
Currajeen is an oasis, where one can step aside from a busy schedule – for an hour, a morning, a day a week A programme of retreats are set each year-retreats of six days either directed or guided. There is live in accommodation for five people and a conference room for up to twenty five. Spiritual companioning or guidance is available by appointment through the year, as is the opportunity for private retreats.
RSC Companions, inspired by the spirit, dream and life of Mary Aikenhead support one another by friendship and prayer, and they endeavour to show Christ’s compassion for all. These groups gather for prayer, friendship and reflection on life in various locations in Victoria and New South Wales.
The healing ministry captures the essence of the all encompassing love of our Foundress, Mary Aikenhead, in her concern for the whole person. Those involved in this ministry spend time in companionship and prayer with the emotionally broken, the abused, those who are confused, disturbed and rejected. This enables people to journey back mentally through their lives, recalling painful memories, revisiting past experiences in a safe and supportive environment. It is home to three sisters of charity.