Associates Launch Planning Efforts for 2012-2013 Programs

Crown Point Ecology Center Welcomes Associates Gathering
Sustainability, Community, Spirituality and Justice, the four principles of the Crown Point Ecology Center (Bath, OH) were background themes as 35 Associates, Sisters, Associate Candidates, and friends gathered there for a Fall kick-off event. These Northeast Ohio participants came from Akron, Alliance, Cleveland, and Warren to meet with each other, welcome new Associate Candidates, and outline plans for the coming year. Associates savored the outdoor location on this sunny end of summer Saturday morning. We prayed, sang, and reflected on Dominican values and the "Call to the Laity" from Pope Benedict to accept "ecclesial and social co-responsibility" for the life of the Church. Energy, ideas and specific plans filled the air as all present agreed with Joyce Rupp in prayer: "Maker of the Seasons, thank you for all that autumn teaches me. Change my focus so that I see not only what I am leaving behind, but also the harvest and the plenitude that my life holds."

Open Your 2013 Calendar & Save The Date!
Associate Ginger Kroos, chair of the Associates Annual Retreat announces that "the place and the date has been set for the OPA Retreat for the next year 2013. Mark your calendars for April 19-21 and plan to come to meet and mingle with other Associates at the St. Mary's Retreat House in Oxford, MI. Our title and theme is: "And God said, 'It is Good;' making peace with our world. A study and prayer retreat on sustainability and appreciation of the universe." The retreat is offered and presented by Associates for Associates. More details and the registration form will be available soon."