A Letter from the SSMO Superior General
Dear Friends, Family, Sisters and Brothers,
Welcome to October. As autumn surrounds us with its beautiful colors and gentle changes, it feels like a natural time to pause with gratitude and thanksgiving. October is also the month traditionally dedicated to the Holy Rosary, a prayer that holds a special place in the life of our Sisters.
Each day, our Sisters pray the Rosary, bringing the people and intentions entrusted to us before Mary. As I pray, I remember my family, friends, colleagues, benefactors, and those who have asked for our prayers. I also pray for our world, knowing that we are all connected through God’s love. The Rosary reminds us that our prayer is not only for ourselves. It opens our hearts to the needs, joys, sorrows, and hopes of others.
Our Congregation’s theme this year is “Living the Gospel Values.” The Rosary helps us live this call. As we move through the mysteries of the lives of Jesus and Mary, we are invited to look beyond ourselves and ask how we are being called to love, forgive, serve, and respond with compassion. Mary teaches us, through her own life, to listen for God’s voice and to say, “Yes!” even when we do not know where that yes will lead us.
As Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon, we have been called by God to live our charism: “We, the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon, living as women of prayer, in simplicity and sisterly love, are called to be compassionate, joyful servants of the Lord.” We endeavor to share in the mission of Jesus by proclaiming the Good News of God’s love.
The Rosary strengthens us for this mission. In its simplicity and repetition, it creates a space where our hearts can become quiet enough to hear God. It draws us into the life of Jesus through Mary and reminds us that our religious vocation is sustained not simply by what we do, but by who we are becoming in Christ.
Rooted in our baptismal commitment, we are nourished by the Paschal Mystery of Christ. Our daily celebration of the Eucharist and our life of prayer help us rely upon the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as we respond faithfully to our call. Our Constitutions guide us to support one another in prayer and to create an atmosphere that nurtures interior stillness.
This October, as we pray the Rosary, may Mary help each of us become more attentive to God’s call, more compassionate toward one another, and more willing to say, “Yes!” to the Gospel each day.
May our prayer become our life, and may our life become a prayer.
Blessings,
Sr. Michael Francine Duncan
SSMO
Superior General
SSMO Leadership Team:
SSMO Superior General
SSMO Vicar General
SSMO General Councilor
SSMO General Councilor
Visit ssmo.org/ssmo-announces-new-leadership-team/ to learn more about the Sisters’ elections and General Chapter Meetings.
