Bridging Generations of Faith: Reflections from This Year’s Opal Workshop

by Alice Turner

This year’s annual OPAL (Ohio Pennsylvania Associate Leadership) workshop was held at the Villa Maria Education and Spirituality Center on October 25th. It was a day of insight, inspiration, and genuine connection. Participants gathered in a spirit of curiosity and openness to explore how faith continues to evolve and take shape in today’s Church and world.

The morning session featured Sr. Linda Buck, CSJ, the executive director of the Leadership Collaborative, who offered a powerful presentation on the Charism Carrier Movement and its vital place in our contemporary context. Drawing on her own
experience and deep understanding of religious life, Sr. Linda reflected on how religious communities are changing—and how these transformations ripple outward to the lay programs and associates who share in their mission and spirit.

Her talk invited participants to see themselves as co-carriers of the charism, embracing new ways to live out the founding visions of their congregations in a rapidly changing world. Sr. Linda reminded us that while structures and forms may shift, the essence of our shared charism—the call to live Gospel values with compassion and creativity—remains timeless and deeply needed. In the afternoon session, attention turned toward the next generation as five young adults took the stage to share their personal journeys of faith, church, and spirituality. Their stories were marked by honesty, courage, and hope. Each panelist spoke from the heart about navigating belief in an age of uncertainty—sharing how they have wrestled with questions, rediscovered meaning, and found community along the way. Katie Kearney, IHM Associate, was part of that young adult panel.

Some panelists described their faith as rooted in long-held tradition, while others spoke of exploring new spiritual expressions. Yet, despite their different paths, a common thread emerged: a deep longing for authentic connection, purpose, and belonging.

As participants listened, it became clear that this was more than just a panel discussion—it was a conversation across generations, a reminder that faith continues to unfold through dialogue, listening, and shared experience. The day concluded with a sense of renewed hope. Those present left with a greater appreciation for both the heritage of religious life and the emerging voices shaping the Church of tomorrow. Together, these perspectives painted a beautiful picture of continuity and change—of charism carried forward in new and life-giving ways. Representing the IHM community in person were Sister Ruth Harkins, April King, and Alice Turner. Joining virtually via Zoom were Jo-Ann Baca, Ann Rink, and Mary Calderone. The day was marked by meaningful connection, uplifting spirit, and a shared sense of hope.