2020 blog of Sister Madonna, SSCM
I would like to introduce you to a dear friend I’ve admired for over forty
years. Her name is Sister Joan Chittister, a Benedictine Religious
Woman whose motherhouse is situated in Erie Pennsylvania. Joan is an
internationally known author, lecturer and visionary voice in the church
and society. She has written more than 50 books and has received
numerous awards for her writngs and work on behalf of peace, justice
and human rights. Currently Joan is an online columnist for the
National Catholic Reporter (NCR). In the past she has served as
president of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR)
and as former Prioress of the Benedictine Sisters of Erie. For as well-
known as Joan is locally, nationally and internationally, she is very
rooted to everyday living and interaction with people of all diversities.
She is pensive, witty, direct and naturally courageous to speak on issues
ordinary folk prefer to avoid, particularly those “elephants in the
room.” She is deeply devoted to the Rule of Saint Benedict who, as
early as the Third Century, laid the solid foundations of Christian Gospel
Living within the scope of Love of God and God’s People, Love and Care
of the Earth, attentiveness to the Mission, the work, the contemplation
and the play/Sabbath - of God’s Divine Revelation. It is my hope that
you find the thoughts and expressions of Joan to be intriguing,
challenging, very sensible, doable and defnitely God-Centered. I will be
reflecting on her words from her 2018 publication: WE ARE ALL ONE:
Reflections on Unity, Community and Commitment to Each Other.
www.twentythirdpublications.com New London, Connecticut