New Community Makes First Vows
Diocesan Press Service. August 25, 1975 [75287]
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. -- In Springfield, Mass., on Saturday, August 16, at the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, The Community of The Reconciliation came of age as the first vows of simple profession were received by the Rt. Rev. Alexander Doig Stewart, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts. Those present included Anglican, Roman Catholic and Protestant clergy, religious from the Order of the Holy Cross, the Roder of St. Helena, and the Felician Sisters (R.C.), and other friends, many from near-by St. Peter's parish.
The Community of The Reconciliation began on July 4, 1973, when three people moved into the first house to live in Christian community, share Daily Offices, the common meal and to work individually in outside jobs. During the first year, the emerging shape of community became more and more monastic as the specific way these Christians were being called to live out their Baptismal vows.
In May of 1974, two new postulants entered, and Bishop Stewart accepted the position of Episcopal Visitor. On August 17, 1974, four persons took simple annual vows to community; in September the first superior was elected. On August 16, 1975, all four renewed vows to community, and at this time three professed the additional exposition of poverty, chastity and obedience.
Present members 'are professionals in the fields of organ building, painting, printmaking and organ voicing.
Sister Susan Mangam, superior, said, "The Community of The Reconciliation will, God willing, continue as a self supporting religious community for men and women. But before all this is the ever unfolding work of reconciliation -- when, where and however people need to hear and know of the love of God in The Reconciliation that was once and forever given us on the Cross."