Ask not what your region can do for you, ask what you can do for your region
During the regional pre-Chapter Zoom on November 8, 2025, we were asked to respond to the following questions: “What are some ways you can initiate/engage in co-creating the region? How can you continue to deepen relationships across the region? What kind of engagement would deepen our sense of belonging and our vocation?”
These questions echoed President J.F. Kennedy’s call, “Ask not what your region can do for you, ask what you can do for your region.” This led us to extend an invitation to the region to become co-learners in our evolving understanding of Christogenesis through a 10- week online course. In 2024, we shared the course with the sisters in initial formation in the East Central Africa Province; this year, we offered it to the newly forming Region of Africa. There were 79 co-learners.
The U.S. | Toronto Region sessions, held this spring, were attended by 35 full-time and 32 part-time sisters and partners-in-mission from the region. Beyond the region, we had an international flavor with sisters from Ireland, Singapore, Myanmar, and more. It was an opportunity to live in “communion” as one community and to deepen our sense of belonging.
Exploring Christogenesis Together
The course explored the relationship between science and religion through the Universe Story using a Christological and Trinitarian approach. Participants studied the works of Teilhard de Chardin, SJ, Thomas Berry, CP, and Fr. Jim Conlon while integrating the spirituality of St. John Eudes, St. Mary Euphrasia, along with contemporary voices in cosmology, Christogenesis, ecology, and theology.
Through films, presentations, discussions, and reflection, participants deepened their evolving understanding of the universe and their relationship with God, one another, and creation. The learning experience was enriched through time in nature, contemplative prayer, small and large-group sharing, scripture, music, and creative projects. Sr. Kathy Duffy, SJ, Professor John Haught, Ph.D., and Sr. Gayle Worcelo were guest speakers, along with Barbara and Brigid, helping co-learners integrate new insights into their personal and communal lives. Lillian Gunn, our technician, not only kept us online but also created certificates and performed other administrative tasks.
Reflections from Co-Learners
In evaluating the course, many of the respondents shared their reflections:
“Each session was beautifully and creatively structured, balancing prayer, music, and videos with thoughtful presentations and open conversation. I also really appreciate the helpful bibliography provided, which has encouraged us to continue this learning journey on our own.” Elaine Basinger, RGS
“The course was an interesting and gentle introduction to the theology of Teilhard de Chardin. Through the course readings, resources, and discussions, I was able to discover how my own personal love for our planet and our fellow creatures corresponds with the scripture and love of God. We really are a part of the whole Universe.” Monte Abbott, Partner-in-Mission
“Only in contemplation can I become aware of the uniqueness of each flower, each tree, the grass; of each bird, of each unique human being. I take with me the invitation to interiority/contemplation, which for me, is an essential part of transformation.” Yolanda Martinez, RGS
“There are moments in life when we are invited not simply to learn something new, but to become new.” Monique Tarabeh, RGS
