Becoming a Healing PresenceOctober 14, 2024

In April, I had the honor of representing leadership at the LCWR (Leadership Conference for Women Religious) in Pittsburgh, where the theme centered on Transforming Grace. One of the keynote speakers, Sr. Chris Koelhoffer, deeply inspired me with her words, prompting this reflection.

Sr. Chris emphasized that it is our responsibility to act and stir ourselves into becoming a healing presence. She likened this intention to a powerful force field that opens up when we earnestly desire healing for ourselves and the world from the depths of our hearts and minds. This intention, she explained, has the potential to lead to profound transformation.

She posed a crucial question: What is ours to do? Do we fully grasp the power that resides within us? She spoke of paths opening up in the quietude of our hearts, where endless possibilities emerge. Scientists have observed that introducing possibilities into the collective consciousness can trigger awakening among those who are receptive.

Sr. Chris asserted that we are conduits of possibility. What if we could awaken a collective recognition in countless individuals that the essence of God's reign is Love—a love that is unconditional, freely given, and requires no validation of worthiness?

While not a novel concept, it is the way in which it is conveyed that we look at it. Sr. Chris introduced me to the "Speech Act"—the transformative power of speaking thoughts or ideas into existence. A speech act can welcome, alter understanding, or even lead to suffering consequences. It creates ripples and vibrations that affect both sides of a situation—it is inclusive, embracing both/and dynamics. This nuanced approach, she suggested, is instrumental in facilitating true transformation.

Transformative practice encompasses breathing with awareness and acting with intention. It involves pausing amidst our plans and busyness, dwelling in possibilities, and blessing the spaces we inhabit. Drawing from personal experiences, transformative practice extends beyond a private affair; it actively interacts and catalyzes transformation. Engaging in this way can unleash powerful forces, allowing us to embrace and be inspired by the Spirit. It reminds us of our responsibility in shaping the energy we bring into every room we enter. Sr. Chris’ word for this is “enspiring”.

Once inspired what do we do? Sr. Chris refers to Noam Chomsky in his book Manufacturing Consent. He says we don’t need to do everything [Thank God!] But what we do can be done intentionally. Whatever we can’t finish is the will of God. Take risks and don’t worry. Just keep breathing.

In these unsettling times, are we ready to be peacemakers and healers?

Sister Mary Eileen Boyle