Loretto Circles Offer Welcoming Way To Get To Know Loretto

Circles are easily seen in pizzas and bicycle wheels, even birthday cakes! Circle images are in prose and poetry and in all kinds of other imagery. Through the years Loretto members often have quoted Rainer Maria Rilke’s poem “Widening Circles” to experience Rilke’s image of his relationship to God. Everyone enters the circle at her or his pace and time. More than a decade ago, Loretto chose the symbol of the all-embracing circle to serve as a broad invitation to welcome everyone.

In 2009 at the Loretto Assembly, Loretto members approved a resolution to create a Loretto Circle as a way for individuals to connect with Loretto without needing to make a vowed or co-membership commitment. Circles are an informal affiliation of individuals who want to come together with Loretto Community members to learn more about Loretto history, mission, values and spirituality through various ways. These may include studies of Loretto written materials, retreats, spirituality discussions, peace and justice activities and other mission-related opportunities. Circles meet on a regular basis, either in person or online. 

Loretto Outreach became involved with the Loretto Circle to carry on the work that had been initiated by Loretto co-members, Martha Alderson and Barbara Mecker. The goals of the Loretto Circle dovetailed nicely with that of Loretto Outreach, as Circles are one way to extend the spirit and values of the Loretto Community.

Currently there are three Loretto Circles. One is based out of St. Louis and starting its seventh year; one, now in its third year, is based out of Lexington, Ky.; and a third  draws members from throughout the United States. This Circle is starting its fifth year.  

Subhead: Ways for Circle Members To Connect With the Loretto Community

• Subscribe to the monthly Circle newsletter.
• Participate in Loretto spiritual retreats (two to three opportunities per year). 
• Take part in online programs on peace, justice and sustainability issues 
• Join in direct actions for peace and justice supported by Loretto
• Get involved with a Loretto network (Loretto Earth Network, Loretto Feminist Network)
• Participate in online celebrations of the changing seasons (offered quarterly)