A Letter from the SSMO Superior General
Dear Friends, Family, Sisters and Brothers,
Welcome to June! As the days grow warmer and the beauty of summer surrounds us, the Sisters are grateful for the many blessings God continues to pour upon our community, sponsored ministries, and all of you who journey with us in faith and friendship.
One of the great celebrations this month is the Feast of Corpus Christi on June 7. Corpus Christi is the beautiful feast when the Church celebrates the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist. As Catholics, we believe that Jesus is truly present, Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity, in the Eucharist. At every Holy Mass, we are invited to deepen our faith and recognize that Christ remains with us always.
In receiving Holy Communion, we enter into a profound and intimate union with Jesus Christ. Through this sacred gift, we are drawn closer to God and strengthened to live the Gospel with joy, compassion, and hope. St. John Henry Newman reminds us that if one “realizes the mystery of the Incarnation we must feel disposed towards that of the Holy Communion.” The Eucharist is truly the longed-for hope of salvation and a source of grace for our daily lives.
June is also an exciting and joyful time for our Valley Catholic community. On June 4, Valley Catholic High School will celebrate the Baccalaureate Mass, followed by Graduation on June 7. These special moments honor the accomplishments of our graduates and the many years of hard work, faith, and dedication that have brought them to this milestone. We are proud of each student and pray that they will continue to walk with courage, wisdom, and trust in God as they begin new chapters in their lives. We hope many of you will join us in celebrating these joyful occasions.
As summer begins, the Sisters will also be preparing for a few summer breaks, times of retreat, ministry planning, and visits with family and friends. Even during quieter summer days, the work of prayer and ministry continues. Our Sisters remain active in education, health care, pastoral ministry, and outreach, always seeking ways to bring the love of Christ to others.
We are especially grateful for your continued prayers, kindness, and support of the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon. Your friendship strengthens our mission and reminds us of the goodness of our wider community.
May this month of June bring you peace, renewed faith, and many moments of joy with family and loved ones. Be assured of our prayers for you always.
Blessings,
Sr. Michael Francine Duncan
SSMO
Superior General
SSMO Leadership Team:
SSMO Superior General
SSMO Vicar General
SSMO General Councilor
SSMO General Councilor
These four Sisters were installed at a special Mass on Sunday, June 29 at 9 a.m. at the Sisters’ Our Lady of Perpetual Help Chapel inside the SSMO Motherhouse. Visit ssmo.org/ssmo-announces-new-leadership-team/ to learn more about the Sisters’ elections and General Chapter Meetings.
