On Saturday, June 14, the Dominican Sisters Association (DSA) held its inaugural assembly — a joyful and hope-filled gathering that marked a significant step forward in our shared journey. Many of our Sisters and Associates were in attendance at this landmark event.
The day began with prayer, song, and a meaningful ritual honoring the five Dominican congregations that form the DSA: Amityville, Blauvelt, Caldwell, Hope, and Sparkill. This moment symbolized the strength of our shared mission and the deep bonds of collaboration. Sister Catherine Walsh's inspired preaching may be found here.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in rich dialogue and communal discernment, culminating in the affirmation of the DSA Focus Statement, which offers a clear and unified path forward for our collective ministry.
A historic highlight was the election of the DSA’s first Executive Committee — a leadership team entrusted with guiding us into this new chapter. Warm congratulations to Sr. Theresa Rickard (President, Blauvelt), Sr. Mary Hughes (1st Executive Committee Member, Amityville), and three additional members of the Committee: Sr. Connie Kelly (Hope), Sr. Mary Murray (Sparkill), and Sr. Pat Tavis (Caldwell). Their shared vision and dedication to Dominican life and service will help lead us with purpose and grace.
The assembly concluded with a blessing of the new Executive Committee, sending them forth with encouragement, trust, and hope. As the DSA begins this next exciting new chapter, may we be energized by bold ideas, deep listening, and the spirit of communion that defines our way of life.
THE DOMINICAN SISTERS ASSOCIATION FOCUS STATEMENT:
The primary focus of the Dominican Sisters Association (DSA) is to provide shared canonical governance that respects and upholds each congregation's unique identity and needs, while ensuring the care and well-being of our Sisters and the vitality of our common mission. The Association will support member congregations in planning for a future in which they may no longer have the capacity to exercise canonical governance independently.
We are committed to contemplative practice, transparent communication, and deeper collaboration among ourselves and our partners in mission across a range of areas that will strengthen and expand our shared mission of preaching the Gospel through justice, truth seeking, and compassion. The DSA will offer resources to support: future planning; ongoing study; health and well-being; new vowed, Associate, and emerging forms of membership; and other specific needs raised by member congregations.
Sr. Sheila Brennan, DSA Delegate and Task Force Member, shares her reaction to the Assembly:
“As the Morning Prayer began at the DSA Assembly, I was overwhelmed with emotion. I didn’t expect tears of joy to collect in my eyes as we sang, All That We Have by Gary Ault: ‘All that we have and all that we offer comes from a heart both frightened and free.’ I was so happy that we were in this place together to strengthen the bonds of collaboration and support among my Dominican family members.”
Sr. Grace Hogan, DSA Delegate and Task Force Member, states:
“It was wonderful to see the fruits of the years of planning come together on Saturday at the Inaugural Assembly of the Dominican Sisters Association. There was a tremendous spirit of sisterhood as together we witnessed to our Dominican Life and Mission.”
