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The most recent period in the history of the Society of the Sacred
Heart has been shaped by the way in which numerous world events affect
the quality and dignity of human life, and by the Church's own renewal
manifested in its decrees from Vatican Council II. In this world/church
revolutionary atmosphere, the Society of the Sacred Heart perceived the
need for its own renewal and change. Among the many changes within the
reform process, three dramatic shifts in the Society are central.
- In
choosing to define itself as an "apostolic community," the Society of
the Sacred Heart removed the rule of cloister at the General Chapter of
1964.
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- In
seeking to meet human needs in a world of rapid and constant change,
the Society committed itself to follow the "signs of the times" and
entered into a period of experimentation from 1967 to 1982. Together
with the delegates to the international General Chapters rscj shaped
the direction and priorities of the congregation that would be faithful
to both the charism of Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat and to contemporary
and urgent needs of people.
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- In articulating its renewed purpose and vision the Society wrote new constitutions. For Religious of the Sacred Heart, the Constitutions of 1982
are the foundation of their life radically rooted in the Gospel. These
Constitutions express their conviction and commitment to be women of
communion, to live lives rooted in prayer, and to work for justice in
all its dimensions.
In the United States, the Society's work of
education also changed dramatically during this time. Convent schools
that were heretofore marked by uniformity, exemplified by a consistent
curriculum of the Spirit and Plan of Studies and vicariate
examinations, were shaped into a Network of Sacred Heart Schools in the
mid-1970's. Within the Network, each school reflected the unique local
and regional needs and educational requirements, but continued to share
the same educational philosophy and spirit expressed in the Goals and
Criteria for Schools of the Sacred Heart.
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Mission Statement of the Society of the
Sacred Heart of Jesus,
United States Province
The
Society of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is an international community of
women in the Catholic Church, founded in 1800 by St. Madeleine Sophie
Barat. Sharing her vision and mission, we are convinced of the
centrality of prayer and contemplation in our lives. We are committed
to discover, live and announce God’s love through the service of
education for transformation, in diverse ministries, particularly
addressing the needs of children, young people, women and those in
society who are marginalized.
What the Mission Entails
The love of Christ impels us:
- to work for justice and reconciliation, especially in the face of racism, sexism and violence of every kind;
- to join the struggle of the poor for the resources and conditions essential for human well-being;
- to build community;
- to be challenged and broadened by other cultures;
- to live in interdependence with others and with all of creation.
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