Co-members of Loretto
The Co-membership program has long been part of Loretto. It was established in 1970, more than 50 years ago, and opened the door to women and men of many religious affiliations and spiritual traditions to share in the Loretto mission “to work for justice and act for peace because the Gospel urges us.” The Sisters of Loretto (vowed members), along with the Co-members, make up the membership of the Loretto Community.
Co-members of Loretto live the spirit and mission of Loretto through individual mutual commitment.
Lifestyles, occupations, marital status, geographical distribution and religious traditions vary. Co-members share in many aspects of the life of Loretto, serving on committees and staff and actively participating in Community Groups and gatherings. Although the greatest numbers of Co-members live in areas that have the greatest numbers of Sisters of Loretto (Colorado, Kentucky and Missouri), co-members live in other states and countries outside the United States.
The name Co-membership carefully was chosen and represents more than an association with Loretto – the “co” in Co-membership means cooperation, community, communication, contribution and contract. Loretto Co-members commit themselves to participation in the life and work of the Loretto Community and share their time, talent and treasure in support of Loretto and its mission.
Co-membership process
The process of becoming a Co-member takes on average 2-5 years and provides the experiential learning necessary for a deeper understanding of the community and its spirituality, mission and values. Those considering Co-membership, regardless of their knowledge or history with the community, are encouraged to take some time to get familiar with Loretto’s current mission activities, meet Loretto members (recommendations from four current members is required for application) and explore what form of “belonging” most appeals to them. Some suggestions for doing this are:
- Subscribe to the weekly Midweek Mission Messages to get more familiar with Loretto and find out about events.
- Attend public events either in person (at the Loretto Motherhouse in Kentucky or with Loretto members in other locations) or virtually on Zoom. This includes retreats, concerts, seasonal celebrations, workshops, political actions and educational events.
Once you’ve explored some ways to engage in Loretto and have four Loretto members who can recommend you, you may complete and submit the Preliminary Information Form, found at the bottom of this page.
Act, work, and pray for justice and peace
For over 50 years, Loretto has welcomed women and men who wish to partner with them as Co-members of Loretto. To those interested in speaking and living the mission of the Gospel we say: “You belong.” Belonging is not just inherited, sometimes it is chosen. Sometimes it is embraced in fragile times that leads a person to “seek and find.”
Just as Jesus proclaimed the image of the vine and the branches to show unity with us, so does Loretto partner with Co-members to sustain each other. We break bread together, we hold each other in love, we walk in service as one.
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