Called Daily to Spread God’s Love. USA Chapter
Called Daily to Spread God’s Love.
A Joyful Journey of Courage, Encounter, and New Beginnings in Tenafly
In the quiet beauty of Tenafly, something deeply hopeful unfolded within the USA chapter of the Missionary Franciscan of the Immaculate Conception Institute. Rooted in contemplative hearts and united by a shared calling, the sisters gathered with one spirit: to go onward together, with courage, joy, and peace.
The chapter began with a beautiful opening Mass followed by dinner, bringing together around 40 sisters, members of the Tenafly staff, and the new Lay Leadership team. The liturgy was thoughtfully planned by Sisters Lucy Flaherty and Carla Thomas, creating a prayerful atmosphere that invited everyone into reflection, gratitude, and unity. The celebration was enriched by the beautiful music accompaniment of Bro. Bob Frazzetta, OFM, whose presence and music added warmth and spirit to the gathering. The evening continued with joyful conversations, laughter, and the quiet happiness that comes when people gather with a shared sense of mission and belonging. These moments reminded everyone that community is not built only through work and decisions, but also through presence, listening, prayer, and shared meals around the same table.
The following morning opened with an encouraging message from Sr. Pauline Robinson. Her words carried hope and confidence, gently inviting the sisters to look toward the future with faith and openness. She acknowledged the realities and uncertainties of the present moment while encouraging everyone to trust that God continues to lead the community forward with love and purpose.
The financial report presented by Kelly Murphy and Brian Kovalski followed in a spirit of transparency and collaboration. Their presentation was simple, clear, and informative, allowing the sisters not only to receive information but also to engage through questions and discussion about the future. The atmosphere throughout reflected trust, respect, and the desire to move forward together with wisdom and responsibility.
The second day began with fresh energy as all the attendees gathered again, ready to continue the journey together. The Circle leadership team: Sisters Jeanette Gaudet, Julie Franchi, and Donna Driscoll, then shared their reports with authenticity and transparency. Their message clearly acknowledged that these have been challenging times, yet what stood out most was the courage and dedication with which these three leaders carried their responsibilities until the end. Their service reflected not discouragement, but deep commitment and love for the community. Even in difficulty, they remained faithful, joyful, and dedicated to the mission entrusted to them.
Following the leadership reports, Sister Marie Puleo offered an update about the schools, sharing important developments with hope and commitment to the future. Her presentation reminded everyone that the charism continues to touch lives in meaningful ways.
The gathering could not conclude without a heartfelt moment of gratitude and recognition for Sr. Jeremiah O’Sullivan and her humble service as treasurer of the province. Her faithful dedication, offered quietly and generously through the years, was deeply appreciated by all present.
Throughout the chapter, there was a growing awareness that challenges can become open doors to discover something new. In moments of uncertainty, new perspectives emerged. Fresh visions began to take shape. There was a sense that even difficult transitions can create space for growth, renewal, and unexpected grace. The spirit of the gathering echoed the wisdom of Elizabeth Hayes: “Go onward and do not doubt.” These words seemed to accompany the sisters as they reflected on the present and stepped prayerfully toward the future.
The chapter concluded with a deeply moving commissioning ceremony marking the transition from religious to lay leadership. It was a sacred and emotional moment, symbolizing the passing of leadership from the sisters’ care into the hands and hearts of lay leaders, who now continue the journey with reverence and dedication. It was not seen as an ending, but as a continuation of the same mission expressed in a new way.
The final words of the gathering came from Kelly, the new leader, whose heartfelt reflection captured the spirit of the entire chapter:
“We all stand here before you feeling blessed, privileged, honored, and deeply humbled all at the same time. As we step into our new roles, we do this with great respect and care, fully aware that this represents your life’s community, your life’s work. We do not take this lightly.
We are here to continue the journey into the future, and in the true Franciscan spirit, taking one step at a time. Listening, opening our hearts, letting the message in so we can let it out. Remaining open and willing to adapt and flow as things change.
Will we get it right the first time? We hope to. But we understand that some things may need to change, we may need to add or subtract. Our main goal is that every sister here lives fully supported through our local spiritual lineup.
Over the past few days, the outpouring of love, trust, and support has been deeply felt. Every greeting in the morning, every passing in the hallway, every meal, and yes, the many desserts, the outpouring of love for us has been overwhelming beyond words.
We are grateful. And as we move forward and strengthen people, we know we do not walk this path alone. We know that we have all of you. We have your support, your trust, and your encouragement to bring this moment forward.
We have been living this new structure for some time now behind the scenes, working together as leadership transitioned from one team to another. And you know what? I have one thing to say: We’re ready.”
And so, with contemplative hearts and renewed hope, the community continues onward together, called daily to spread God’s love with courage, joy, and peace.
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