MISSION AND MINISTRY | The Catholic Mission and Identity Committee of LMU’s Board of Trustees invited the Trustees to participate in a Day of Reflection in the Jesuit Community. The day of reflection, Sunday, Feb. 23, 2020, prior to the February board meeting, was led by Trustee Cecilia Magladry, C.S.J., and John Sebastian, vice president for mission and ministry. The program began with the 10 a.m. Mass at Sacred Heart Chapel followed by a half-day program in the library of the Jesuit Community.
The presenters focused on the meaning of charism and the spiritual charisms of the three religious orders that have long been serving LMU: the Society of Jesus, the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary, and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange.
The guest speakers, Mary Genino, R.S.H.M., MaryAnne Huepper, C.S.J., Marc Reeves, S.J., and Paul Viviano, chair of the LMU Board of Trustees, shared personal stories and reflected on the unique charisms of each of the sponsoring religious orders that were enlightening and inspiring.
The day of reflection was well-attended and participants found themselves engaging in reflective group sharing answering questions, such as, “What is your calling as a member of the Board of Trustees?” “How can I deepen my understanding of charism in my own life and as a member of the university board?”
Trustees were invited to reflect on their role on the board and how it encompassed the university’s mission, what they bring to the board, and what they receive from their service. Ultimately this day provided an opportunity to create an intentional space where they could enter into quiet reflection and small-group discussions to bring many to deeper appreciation of their important contributions as trustees.
There was a special balance of contemplative time in silence and group sharing. Having received positive feedback about this experience from participants, the future plan is to hold Days of Reflection bi-annually.
