Immersion: A multitude of beautiful ways

“The immersion in April was a chance to delve deeply into what it means to be a teacher in the Loretto tradition,” reflected St. Mary’s Academy teacher Mike Lantagne following the annual Teacher Immersion at the Motherhouse. With activities packed into the brief visit, 12 teachers from Loretto Academy (LA), Nerinx Hall High School (NH) and St. Mary’s Academy (SMA) joined me, immersion organizer, for what many described as a “life- changing” experience.

Mike summed up the experience. “The Immersion happened in a multitude of beautiful ways: experiencing the history of Loretto firsthand; engaging with the Community; being invited into the discussion about what the future of Loretto holds; learning about the initiatives of the Motherhouse from retreats and compassionate care for aging Loretto members to the inspiring regenerative ethos of the Loretto Motherhouse Farm; delving bravely into Loretto’s history of slavery and boarding schools and considering how to face those difficult truths; exploring spirituality with Loretto sisters and with their neighbors, the Trappist Cistercians at the Abbey of Gethsemani; spending quality time with the Community and simply enjoying our colleagues.”

Following the immersion, participants shared their experiences. Here are some excerpts:

“I not only felt enlightened by the sisters’ knowledge but also felt covered with the Community’s love and generosity.” Hetty Arreola, LA

“I will always strive to model the search for truth, beauty and the ways of peace that I observed at the Loretto Motherhouse. … I will never forget standing in front of the Motherhouse Community as they prayed a blessing for us.” Emma Von Tscharner, SMA

“My eyes were opened to another way to approach my faith as we learned about the presence of God within us. All the elements of our time at the Motherhouse created a strong desire to help keep Loretto alive and strong in the future.” Erin Wagner, NH

“Everyone was so welcoming and wanted to know about us and our schools.” Elizabeth Goforth, SMA

“Every speaker touched my heart and made me ponder how I can better serve my community, be a better steward of the gifts God blessed me with or live a cleaner, greener life to preserve the environment.” Alice Drury, LA

“My favorite part of the experience was not only growing closer to my Nerinx colleagues but also creating friendships with those from Loretto Academy and St. Mary’s.” Grace Woods, NH

“Each of us felt that we were part of a bigger plan, and that it is
our mission to ensure the legacy and essence of our Loretto Community for future students and to keep this very special place thriving for many generations.” Patricia Martinez, LA

“I feel like Loretto’s message to the world boiled down to that single ‘love is the only thing that will save us’ mantra.” Kelley Zinger, SMA

“My eyes have been opened, my spirituality has been awakened and my heart is on fire to continue to live out and share the mission, work and values of the Sisters of Loretto.” Kari Chambers, NH