Louise Dumont: All Those Chapters

Louise is one of several Sisters at this Chapter who have the distinction of having been at every Chapter since 1968/69. At the time of the Special General Chapter in 1968, Louise attended the Chapter at St. Michael’s as assistant to Sister Helen Gorman in Our Lady Province. This Chapter was in answer to the call for renewal after Vatican II.

The regular four-yearly Chapter of 1970, held in England at Mary Ward College, was the first that allowed observers. This Chapter made two momentous decisions – Louise says “recognizing Mother Clare as our founder was the most exciting moment of my life,” and the return to the title “of Peace” rather than “of Newark” was close behind.

Chapters in 1975 (Haverstraw, NY) and 1978 (Seattle University) advanced our commitment to justice and began the six-year cycle of Chapters.

The Centenary Chapter of 1984, “Remembering, Renewing, Risking,” was another special highlight for Louise. Margaret Byrne was unanimously acclaimed Congregation Leader and many unexpected talents unfolded in the course of the centenary celebrations!

Chapters in Seton Hall, NJ (1990) and Bellingham, WA (1996) developed significant commitments to social justice. Our London Chapter in 2002, with its emphasis on the Well
of Integrity, Rivers of Peace and Fountains of Hope led to our work here.

Louise says that a Statement of Direction written in 1974 was a significant turning point for us in its focus on peace and justice; concepts which have developed over the years.

Our Constitutions is the most wonderful document, Louise says, bringing our charism to bear on our vows and on every aspect of our lives. Louise feels we continue to grow and build on the themes we’ve developed over the many Chapters, that the Holy Spirit has guides us well and that she’s never come away from a Chapter feeling disappointed, or dissatisfied.

Now as we move into being a Congregation without provinces, Louise sees that our Contemplative Stance, enhanced through prayer and the quality of our listening and association with each other, will guide us well.