Irish Province Gathering

03/03/2026

Irish Province Gathering took place in Mount St Anne’s Conference & Retreat Centre, Portarlington, Co Laois from February 3rd until February 6th 2026.

This Gathering was a precious time for us where we came together as one to look at the life of the whole Province. The Gathering was facilitated by Katherine O’ Flynn, (FCJ).

The theme of the Gathering was “Furthering the Journey to the next phase in Hope and Gratitude”.

This Gathering was not merely a meeting; it was a time to reconnect, to rekindle our shared vision, and to listen anew to the gentle voice of the Spirit who continually calls us forward.

Prior to the Gathering each community considered their lived reality and they used “Conversation in the Spirit” as a process to prepare this. They reflected personally on some questions and shared in their communities in conversation in the spirit prior to the Gathering.

Presentations from each community were part of the Gathering. After the Presentations we were asked to focus on:

What are you noticing?
Are there trends emerging?
What gives you hope and energy?
What are the challenges?

On day 2 we had a Cost of Care Analysis update, input on VUCA global world from our facilitator and a reflective PowerPoint presentation on “Cherishing Life more fully” from Sr Siobhan O’ Keeffe, (SSHJM). Synodal conversation on the input followed.

Morning prayers and rituals were shared by communities.

Meanwhile we are called to hold fast to hope, God’s unbroken never wavering hope in us as we further our journey as Province.

And just as Angela once urged her daughters to “persevere faithfully and joyfully” so too we are invited to look to the future with open hearts – in hope and gratitude. Hope, because even in the midst of uncertainty, we trust in God’s promise that every step ahead is held in divine love. Gratitude, because we recognize the countless blessings along the way - our communities, our ministries, and the many lives touched by the Ursuline spirit of care and compassion.

As we continue life’s journey, may we keep inspiring one another as women of faith, rooted in Angela’s vision, ready to respond to the signs of our times, and filled with joy for what lies ahead.

Anne-Marie Dixon osu