Amplifying Our Shared Charism

by Sister Rita Michelle Proctor, OSP

“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” -Psalm 118:24

Every ten years, the OSP and IHM Congregations come together to renew our bonds of faith and deepen our shared charism. As I look back on our gathering in July 2025, Psalm 118:24 echoes in my heart: “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Truly, it was a blessing and an honor to reflect, to celebrate, and to recommit ourselves to the mission that unites us.

Those days offered us moments of grace—opportunities to pray, to share stories of faith and service, and to learn from one another. In these encounters, we discovered again the strength that flows from community and the Spirit that breathes life into our charism.

One prayer experience invited us to reflect on the inspiring legacy of Mother Mary Lange, foundress of the Oblate Sisters of Providence. Her unwavering faith, humility, and steadfast devotion continue to guide us. Her words—“Do all you can for the glory and honor of God”—remain a clarion call to dedicate every act of kindness, every moment of service, and every interaction to God’s greater glory. As we remember both Mother Mary Lange, OSP, and Mother Theresa Maxis, IHM, we are reminded that each of us plays a vital role in this unfolding history. Whether through small acts of love or great works of service, it is the sincerity of our hearts that truly makes the difference.

Throughout our time together, we sensed a deep willingness to open ourselves more fully to the grace of the Holy Spirit. This openness renewed our purpose, united us in vision, and inspired us to embrace our shared charism with fresh energy. We were reminded that true service begins within and flows outward—transforming not only our lives but the lives of those we are called to serve.

An African proverb tells us: “A single bracelet cannot jingle alone.” How true this is for us. Alone, we are limited. Together, we create music. Just as a single bracelet is silent but many together create a rhythm, so it is with our communities. We need one another to celebrate, to grieve, to build, to dream, and to live out our charism. Each Sister contributes her unique sound, beauty, and rhythm, but together we create the melody that can inspire and transform the world.

Our theme—“Amplifying Our Shared Charism”—reminds us that our mission grows stronger in unity. Collaboration and dialogue deepen our love for God and expand our service to God’s people. My hope is that the 2025 Gathering enkindles in us the desire to move forward not as solitary voices, but as communities rooted in Providence, faith, love, and trust. For indeed, one bracelet cannot jingle alone—but together, with God’s grace, we can create a symphony of faith, love, and hope that resounds far beyond what any one of us could accomplish alone.

Let us embrace this call with joy. Let us amplify our shared charism. And let us continue the legacies of Mother Mary Lange and Mother Theresa Maxis with courage and conviction. I believe if they could speak to us today, they would surely say:
“LET US JINGLE TOGETHER!”

Sister Rita Michelle is a native Washingtonian and has ministered as a Catholic Educator in middle school and high school. She has served as principal in the Archdiocese of Baltimore.  Sister recently completed her term of office as Superior General of the Oblate Sisters of Providence.