Called to Be...

This month's episode is the second installment of our "My Story" series, wherein a Holy Union Sister shares her story which brought her to our congregation and the ministries she has dedicated her life to. This installment features Sr. Ann Kernan, a colorful story teller. She starts by sharing a unique family history which has many links to Holy Union starting in Ireland in the 1800's. During her talk to our Associates, she shared a number of family photos which we have posted on our Facebook page for you to see. We hope you enjoy this facsinating and unique account.

Today's episode is hosted by Sr. Alice Arsenault, who speaks with our current and previous Archivist, Sam McAdoo and Sr. Christine Lacroix about a true milestone in Holy Union's history here in the United States: preparing our archives to be sent to a new and permanent home at Santa Clara University in Santa Clara, CA. They discuss what our archives contain, the work that was necessary to organize and catalog their contents, and the process that was used in selecting Santa Clara University as their permanent home. A topic that some may expect to be dry or technical is actually moving and wonderful as together we reflect on the impact of Holy Union in the United States and the steps taken to preserve our stories and history.

We are blessed to find, every now and then, deeply caring people who, inspired by a conversation or interaction with one of our Sisters, decides to commit their time and effort to join us in our mission. Dr. Thomas Krahn, MD, is one of those special people. This discussion, moderated by Sr. Fran Cavey, reunites Dr. Krahn with Sr. Josephine Nko and Sr. Sylvia Mepha who are both from Cameroon, and who worked closely with him to help create a clinic, blood bank, and other medical services for the people they serve in several areas of Cameroon. Dr. Kahn is a physician who practices medicine in New England and who has taken repeated extended trips to Cameroon to help our Sisters address a series of serious medical needs in their communities.

Sr. Maryellen Ryan moderates this helpful discussion between Fr. Eddie Coriea, Sr. Joan Guertin, and podcast producer, Ken Gustin on the Synod on Synodality. Most Catholics have heard of the Synod, some have participated in it, and many are filled with questions about it. What is a synod?...why are we doing it?...what is the goal of it?...how does it work?...what are the anticipated fruits of the effort? Our hope with this discussion is to answer many of the questions we've heard and help people understand the deep roots and tradition of synods in our Church's history, and how important this effort by Pope Francis is for us all.

Sister Barbara Walsh moderates a stroll down memory lane with fellow alumnae Ann Marie Charette and Joan Gallagher, of Sacred Hearts Academy in Fall River, MA. Sacred Hearts Academy was Holy Union's first school in North America and it provided a unique educational experience for. so many young women across so many decades. This discussion features memories of specific Sisters, courses, extracurriculars, life-long friendships, and the lasting impact the school left on them.

Sister Nancy Stiles moderates a discussion with Sisters Alice Arsenault and Alice Michael on the essence of Easter and the Easter Season, specifically transformation and openness to new life. Jesus' sacrifice and mercy is on offer to all who are willing to accept it and follow Him in the way of this new way of living. Their discussion spans well known examples of biblical figures who accepted Christ's mercy and some who didn't, as well as our own personal transformations, or opportunities for it, every day. We pray you had a wonderful Easter as we move fully into the Easter season.

As our journey through Lent continues, we're pleased to share with you this discussion we've called "Putting On the Mind of Christ Jesus". This rich exchange between Sisters Fran Cavey, Joan Guertin, and Rita Theresa Goulet weaves together scripture passages, theology, personal experiences, and the current state of our nation and world in a way that will leave you much to reflect on and ponder. May your Lent be a time of growth and reflection as Easter draws ever closer.

If you've heard of "The Chosen" TV show, but never watched it, this episode is for you! Sr. Maryellen Ryan and "Called to Be..."'s producer, Ken Gustin, are joined by Fr. Edward Correia to share their thoughts about this extraordinarily popular TV series based on the Gospel and the life and ministry of Jesus. We're so grateful to Fr. Correia, a well known priest in the Fall River and New Bedford area, for agreeing to join us to explore this remarkable program, whose fouth season is just about to be released. There are seven seasons planned, so you still have plenty of time to start watching! And we hope you do! In fact you can watch every episode of every season by clicking this link: https://watch.thechosen.tv/#carousels

As our podcast begins its third year, we're pleased to share with you this discussion, focused on Holy Union's 50th year in Tanzania! Sr. Nancy Stiles moderates as as Sisters MaryLou Simcoe (US), Annette Farrell (in Tanzania), Jesca Wachanga (Tanzania) and Maria Luvinga (Tanzania) share the history and ministries which have been undertaken since our first Sister arrived there in 1973. The work which is being done spans so many ministries, including a school for autistic students which they have opened. Tanzania is one of Holy Union's growth areas, with a number of women in various stages of formation today.

Christmas unites us all! So this month we explore the Christmas traditions from the cultures of Haiti (Magella Justin - a friend of Holy Union), Italy (Deb Griffin - Holy Union's Office Manager), and The Philippeans (Elma Barranda - a Holy Union Associate), with our moderator Sr. Maryellen Ryan. May the peace and love of Christmas lighten our hearts as we gather with family and friends to celebrate His coming! May you have a blessed Advent and a Merry Christmas!