Called to Community, United in Mission: An SNJM Associate's Story
As relational people, we can share a community in many ways. It is wonderful to be together with the same purpose and find connection, support, and a sense of belonging. During our August gathering, we had the opportunity to share how some congregations are bringing together intergenerational associates. Something very creative that allows us to bring together abuelas, mothers, and young people. Today, a young associate is sharing her story with us, and I hope you find inspiration to invite different generations to gather in your community. --Elia Cardenas, DMin, Associate Director
by Julia Sauter, Associate of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM)
Member of the SNJM Southern California Mission Centre
Participant in Ohio Pennsylvania Associate Leadership (OPAL)
I became an Associate of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) in 2017. As someone in their mid-thirties, I am one of the congregation’s younger associates. Historically, the Sisters of the Holy Names have primarily served in the ministry of education. Thus, most of the associates are former students or parents of children who attended a school staffed by the sisters.
The sisters’ ministries have expanded beyond the classroom into areas such as social justice, healthcare, parish ministry and more. All trace their roots back to our Foundress’ commitment to the full development of the human person, with a particular concern for women and children. I first learned of the sisters through a roommate who was discerning a religious vocation.
After completing my graduate degree and returning home to Southern California, I found myself yearning to be a part of a robust Catholic community again. I also missed having regular interactions with sisters. I found a very active SNJM Associate group located about two hours from my home. I attended monthly formation sessions at one of their convents and began participating in associate gatherings once I completed formation. As the congregation has grown smaller in terms of vowed membership, the associates are equipped to further the charism more intentionally.
The sisters and associates helped support me through a difficult time with depression, a move across the country, and the sudden passing of my mom. They also celebrated with me during moments of growth – giving me the courage to take on new levels of responsibility in ministry and serving on committees and a board for different Catholic organizations. Their feedback helps shape how I see myself and respond to life’s opportunities and challenges. A key experience was a recent pilgrimage to our congregational sacred sites in Canada, specifically for younger associates and affiliates of the congregation. We continue to meet and dream together.
Being a member of an intergenerational group also has its joys and challenges. I don’t have memories of the congregation of the past, with larger numbers of sisters and more institutional ministries. I came to the community when associates were already taking on roles of greater responsibility within their regions and for the congregation. The congregation is very forward thinking in that regard, which I think is a great model for other religious communities.
At times, there can seem to be an assumption that we all have the same memories, because most of the sisters and associates are of about the same age. Sometimes, I need to remind the group that I wasn’t alive at that time or relate to the topic differently because I don’t have the same memories. Sometimes I’m invited to share my perspective as a younger person coming from a different context. I’ve also seen how I have grown to be seen more as a peer within my local region and the greater congregation as the years have passed. Truly, becoming an SNJM Associate has been a great gift, and I look forward to the future.
