Fall 2006, Volume 49, Number 3

Convergence 2006

“We walk one. We celebrate life’s grand diversity. We walk
one. Each single gift becomes our unity. We walk one. We do
not walk alone. We walk one—the universe, the cosmic birth
we share as one.”

These words, a refrain from a song written by Miriam Martin, PBVM, of Newfoundland, Canada, comprised the theme of the 2006 Convergence of North American Presentation sisters and associates. Over 400 sisters and associates gathered at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, MN, from June 29-July 2, 2006 for this historic event.

The idea of grassroots membership gathering to meet, dream together, to connect as one Presentation family and to re-plant our charism in the soil of the Americas was first conceived in January 2002, in Los Gatos, CA.

As the months and years commenced, the form of the Convergence began taking shape. Information about specific interests and issues were collected from each community, ideas for format and speakers were discussed and confirmed, a facilitator was chosen, committees were formed and newsletters were published. All the while the enthusiasm and anticipation for what would be continued to grow. Behind the scenes many people were contributing their time, energy and hard work. As Convergence 2006 finally became a reality, the many hours of planning and labor by creative, organized and generous people gave birth to a dream.

It is hard to put words on this experience, but perhaps exuberant, spirit-filled to over-flowing, and genuine gratitude to be a part of such a memorable gathering come closest. From the moment the buses rolled up to the dorms and cars drove in from all directions, one could feel the spirit of kindred hospitality and mounting excitement. That mood only gained momentum as we “walked one” into the experience of Convergence 2006. We listened attentively to the story of our foundress, Nano Nagle, and the beginnings of each of our respective congregations. The feelings spilled over into jubilant cheers as we answered, “we are” when Sister Elena Hoye of Dubuque, IA, called role for each community. Eight individual communities walked one in the spirit of Nano. Her spirit permeated the space, symbolized by the lantern light that surrounded the assembly.

The beautiful rituals and liturgy graced with dance and color, mime and storytelling filled hearts and eyes with emotion.

Our keynote speaker, Dale McDonald, PBVM, from New Windsor, NY, encouraged us to claim Nano’s spirit. Renee Stevens, our facilitator, led us in sharing ideas and insights and helped us focus on areas of future collaboration. The exhibits of wares demonstrated the giftedness of sisters and associates and, of course, the delightful evening of entertainment Presentation-style evidenced the fun and laughter we have when we come together.

The Convergence was an occasion for old friends to reconnect and for new friendships to form. It was an opportunity to share hopes and dreams of what Presentation sisters and associates can do together to make a more just and peace-filled world. It was a time to plan for the future and also acknowledge and give thanks for the blessings of our past.

We left St. Thomas with joy-filled hearts enriched and energized with courage and hope for the journey ahead. Knowing that something new had been born, but realizing the growth and maturation of what this will be, still lies in the future. With the lyrics of “We Walk One” still on our lips and in our hearts we go forth in the spirit of Nano trusting in God’s providence and confident that we do not walk alone.

Sister Janet Stelken, PBVM
Councillor