Students from eight Ursuline Network schools attended a student retreat January 11-14, 2024 in New Orleans, LA sponsored by the Ursuline Education Network. The theme, FAITHFULLY AND JOYFULLY, focused on prayer, listening, sharing and discovery of how St. Angela Merici inspires everyday life. Sessions included learning the intimate story of St. Angela’s life, learning her influence on the world, and how her spirituality is rooted in hospitality. St. Angela's Feast Day is January 27.
As part of the retreat, students visited sister school Ursuline Academy of New Orleans, the oldest continuously-operating school for girls, and the oldest Catholic school in the United States, founded by Ursuline Sisters from France who courageously answered God's call to educate young women in America in 1727. Sharing the Ursuline School campus is the National Shrine of our Lady of Prompt Succor, also founded by the Ursuline Sisters of New Orleans, where students were welcomed for a prayer service and historical tour. The Shrine celebrated its 100th anniversary in January.
Jane Cruthirds, the Director of Mission at Formation at Sacred Heart Schools, facilitated the sessions by helping retreatants frame spirituality as St. Angela did, within the context of God, self and others. St. Angela’s Rule, Angela’s Story, by Mary Cabrini-Durkin and Also in Your Midst by Sr. Martha Buser served as study references. Retreatants formed and worked in “companies” during their time together, discerning St. Angela’s presence in their everyday life. Students practiced spiritual encounter and listening to be open to growing and serving the greater community. Flanked by popular images of St. Angela, and art work the students created throughout the retreat, the common retreat space served as a “piazza” where the community gathered to grow and share while keeping St. Angela “in their midst.” The desire of “insieme,” to journey together, elevated the spirit of sisterhood created during the retreat.
The UEN student retreat was graciously supported by a grant from the Ursulines of Cincinnati.
SHA students Allison Conliffe, Amelia Lim, and Myzanae Baskette Turner also delighted in some of the unique culture of New Orleans, enjoying gumbo, beignets and cafe au lait, and visiting the French Quarter with Lynne Link, Assistant Principal of Catholic Mission and Curriculum Development, and Betsy Ferch, Dean of Student Life.
