System News

Two teammates and one Roper St. Francis Healthcare retiree on Monday joined the Bon Secours Associates through a commitment ceremony held at the Wellness Center on the campus of Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital.

Teammates Nancy Ashcraft and Traci Ray as well as retired teammate Peggy Messervy made a two-year commitment to sharing the vision, mission and spirituality of the Sisters of Bon Secours.

The women met throughout the pandemic with Regional Program Coordinator Brenda Nelson to explore the charisms of the Bon Secours religious congregation.

With their commitment ceremony, the three women became members in a faith-based community dedicated to extending those charisms of compassion, liberation and healing in their daily lives. The ceremony included scripture, prayers and reflections from Sr. Elaine Davia, USA Leader for the Sisters of Bon Secours and Amy Kulesa, Director of Bon Secours Associates.

Former Roper St. Francis teammate Sister Chris Webb also welcomed the new members.

The ceremony was also shared online so Bon Secours Associates along the east coast and as far away as Ireland could attend.

The Bon Secours Associates are:

• Someone who shares in the Sisters of Bon Secours’ vision, mission and spirituality and has bonds with the congregation without being called to vows.
• An Associate can be a woman or man, Catholic or of other faith traditions, layperson or clergy.
• Associates meet locally at least once monthly, often with the Sisters, for prayer, faith-sharing and mutual support.

The Commitment (not vow) is for a period of two years, which can be renewed. After three two-year renewals, an Associate is invited to make a lifetime Commitment. Along with gathering with their local group, this commitment is carried out in the context of family, workplace, neighborhood, local church and the wider world.

For more information contact Brenda Nelson.