A Lenten Reflection: Second Week of April 2025

As Sisters of the Living Word we are called to be witnesses to Christ alive in our world, in each other, and in all creation. As you may have heard from earlier announcements, the Sisters of the Living Word are celebrating our 50th anniversary this year. One of the goals of this year is to spend a bit of time renewing our connection with one another and with the charism and mission of the SLW.

We have collected a series of writings from our Foundress Sister Annamarie Cook’s Speak Lord for reflection. Our hope is that her writings may promote a deeper understanding and connection with Sister Annamarie, the charism and vision of the Sisters of the Living Word, and with the wider world.

Sometimes we feel that the world is full of sorrow, disappointment, greed, rivalry, and rumors of war. At these times the thought is often triggered by the daily paper’s briefing on what is apparently the scandal of the day or by the disheartening news on TV. The days that the world seems to be afflicted by this curse are many, and yet, suddenly, a ray of light can make its appearance and -- thanks be to God -- this too is caught by the press. These are the moments we should treasure storing them away in our memory to offset the bleak days.

One of these great moments in history is with us now--the pilgrimage of Pope John Paul II to the nations of the world, bringing with him the message of peace and respect for the dignity of all persons. It is amazing how he is sweeping people off their feet, no matter what their race or creed! Here is a man who truly is God-filled and from whose countenance shines forth compassion, lively interest, honest love! The message of Christ comes through simply and unmistakably to the masses. The Word is again born into the world!

May our influence as Sisters of the Living Word be just as powerful wherever and to whomever we minister!

- Sister Annamarie Cook, SLW Foundress
Speak Lord Volume 5 #8, Written in October 1979

In many ways 2025 has felt so full of tragedy.  We grieve as we see so much cruelty and struggle in the environment and humanity everywhere.  If we have ever needed a Lenten season, it seems now is the time.  Time for each of us to reflect on the mercy of God for all people. Time to pray that God’s ways reign and bless all people, especially those who are suffering all around the world.

As we all celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Sisters of the Living Word, we pray that our hearts may grow lighter as we recall the love and joy of Sister Annamarie’s “Yes” to the call of the Word of God in Jesus.

-SLW Congregational Leadership Team