S. Lisa Atkins, RSM Inspires Faculty/Staff on Spirituality Day

An eye-opening and soul-stirring presentation by Sister Lisa Atkins, RSM breathed fresh life and inspiration into faculty and staff on Spirituality Day on March 30, 2022.

The theme of the program, which was organized by Ruth Anne Munroe (Director of Campus Ministry and Student Council Moderator) was “Free Refills Here.”

While acknowledging the challenges and stressors of the school year and how well the faculty/staff have adapted and encouraged the students during tumultuous times, S. Lisa said, “Whenever you take a deep breath, invite Jesus in to refill you.”

She said that faculty/staff should look to Venerable Catherine McAuley as an example because she remained centered in God through contemplation and action, spending quiet time with Jesus and inviting him to direct her out of chaos and closer to His will.  

S. Lisa noted that there are two ways that work best to keep Jesus in our lives. We can be transformed by reading Scripture, and by breathing. During group exercises, faculty and staff focused particularly on the story of the Woman at the Well, learning how Jesus accepted her and helped her realize that He is the living water. They also learned that the name “YAHWEH” imitates the same sounds as breathing – “yod, heh, vav, heh” and that every breath we take says ‘YAHWEH.’

Following S. Lisa’s presentation, Mass was celebrated in Immaculate Conception Chapel with Monsignor William Benwell. The Mercy Guild generously prepared a delicious luncheon in the Student Center to show their appreciation for faculty and staff.  Mercy Guild members Diana Farrell, Dawn Iorio, and Vicki Kosuda expressed the organization’s gratitude and raffle baskets and gifts were available for all.