The Ladies of Charity USA held their 36th National Assembly last week in New York City. A new board and officers were installed, with Suzanne Johnson as the incoming president beginning January 2017. Aside from the installation, the Assembly offered the opportunity for women from all over the United States to get together and be refreshed, reflect on the mission of the organization, and to be inspired/educated by all the different speakers and preachers.

Three Bishops were involved in the assembly, Bishop David A. Zubik, DD, Episcopal Liaison (Diocese of Pittsburgh PA) and Auxiliary Bishop Paul R. Sanchez (Diocese of Brooklyn NY) for opening Mass, and Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M. (Diocese of Trenton NJ) for closing Mass. Several Daughters of Charity were also present as they collaborate with the Ladies of Charity and some act as Vincentian Spiritual Moderators for them.

Photos courtesy of Ladies of Charity USA Facebook Page:

Keynote speakers included Sr. Regina Bechtle, SC who spoke on Praying with the Spiritual Works of Mercy, and Meghan Clark, Ph.D. on Solidarity Embraces Justice and Mercy. There were also “Mercy Workshops” covering topics including Caring for the Sick (Just wages and quality care), Bury the Dead (End of life care issues and hospice), Shelter the Homeless (What will it take to end homelessness?) and Visit the Imprisoned (The face of God’s Mercy behind bars). For a few video clips on the keynote speakers, click here.

For many who do not live near New York City or have never visited, it was a great location in off hours to go on the various optional sightseeing tours, Broadway show, 9-11 museum, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Resources

For the 2016 Assembly agenda click here.

For a full set of 2016 Assembly documents, click here.

Source: Ladies of Charity USA Facebook Page