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CND Associate Relationship

Women and men committed to their baptismal call to live Jesus' mission of service, through justice, love and compassion in today's world.

In the world

Today, in 8 countries on 4 continents, the spirit of Marguerite Bourgeoys and the mission of the CND inspire Sisters and nabout 800 Associates of the Congregation.

Our Mission

As partners, sisters and associates, faithful to their personal vocation, commit themselves to proclaim by their entire life, the Good News of a God of Love.

With Daring, we open, with others, roads to liberation.
With Urgency, we recognize the unjust structures that create the tragedy of exclusion.
With Passion, we desire fullness of life with dignity, for all of humanity.

Spirituality and Mutuality

In this relationship, the Associates and the Sisters of the Congregation commit themselves:

to share with one another the spiritual legacy of Marguerite Bourgeoys
to participate together in prayer, celebration and spiritual enrichment
to collaborate in the mission of the Congregation of Notre Dame

The spiritual heritage of Marguerite Bourgeoys is…

Confidante
Educator
Leader
Social Worker
Marriage Counselor

Marguerite Bourgeoys found inspiration for her mission of education in the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles: Mary's encounter with her cousin Elizabeth (the Visitation) and Mary's experience in the midst of the disciples at Pentecost and in the first Christian community.

Some expressions of Visitation Pentecost spirituality are:

personal identity grounded in one's relationship with God
mutuality, genuine human encounter
attentiveness to the action of the Spirit in oneself, others and the community gathered

Becoming an Associate

Orientation to Associate Relationship accompanied by a Sister or Associate for at least one year
Uncovering together the life and spirituality of Marguerite Bourgeoys
Living Christian discipleship in the light of Visitation Pentecost spirituality, in keeping with one's personal vocation

Our brochure in PDF format: In our busy world… I have discovered a spirituality that enhances my life