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March 30, 2020
Even though we had some technical problems, 13 members came together on March 26th to accompany one another through this pandemic. The conversation was rich.Our next conversation will be Thursday, April 2, 2020 at 12:00 pm (noon) Eastern Time. It is easy to REGISTER, and you will get reminders and follow-up emails.
Agenda: Mission Appeals During a Pandemic
- Essentials – stay in communication with your host dioceses.
- The Pontifical Mission Society Program for Dioceses
- The USCMA Social Media Mission Appeal Program
A Summary of the March 26th Conversation- We acknowledge the grief – especially for the Comboni Sisters who lost 8 sisters in Italy to the Coronavirus – and the pain of cancelling mission trips and the struggle to stay connected.
- We acknowledge the challenge of discerning what we can do during this time to maintain relationships across the country and around the world.
- We need to keep perspective. Missionaries are with and for others in their context. Missionaries have a global perspective and want to be in solidarity with others around the world. The pandemic demonstrates the validity of Catholic Social Teachings and the interconnectedness of humanity.
- We proclaim hope. People can care for others, even when their lives are at risk.
- In the short-term, we need to keep the story of mission alive. The immediate challenge is the Mission Appeals for the summer. One congregation, because it recognizes the number who are unemployed, will focus on mission education.
- The Pontifical Mission Society is offering a service to dioceses so they can continue to participate in the MCP by using Missio.
Resource
For those who are dealing with missionaries returning early from their missions. This webinar is sponsored by our friends at the Catholic Volunteer Network and facilitated by Kelli Nelson, Executive Director of From Mission to Mission.Living Re-Entry During the Time of COVID-19
Thursday, April 4, 2020 / 3:00-4:00pm EDT
Leaving your service site is never easy - but abrupt departures and self-quarantines present a unique set of challenges for many current volunteers and missioners. This webinar will provide support for those who have had to return early/end assignments early due to COVID-19. This session will be facilitated by Kelli Nelson, Executive Director of From Mission to Mission.
Solidarity
Muslims and Christians Celebrating the Annunciation in Lebanon
Prayer Resource
Thomas Merton’s Prayer for Trust
The USCMA staff – even though we are working remotely – meet every morning and begin with prayer for all missionaries. Our first concern is you and your efforts to embody the universal mission Jesus entrusted to us, his church.