VOLUNTEERS IN AN ACT OF HOPE

The Religious of the Sacred Heart of the United States Province are inviting volunteers to join them in AN ACT OF HOPE.

This programme is designed for young women who desire to give one or two years to integrate spirituality, community living and service to the poor. Participants live with each other and Religious of the Sacred Heart in a community characterised by a simple lifestyle, shared prayer and reflection, and ministry to those suffering from poverty.

During the pilot year of the programme, two volunteers lived in community with Religious of the Sacred Heart in New York City, working in teaching and social service ministries. This year two volunteers are teaching Hispanic and African-American children in Houston and New York City respectively.

The programme's mission statement is taken from the present day priorities of the Religious of the Sacred Heart in the U.S. Province.

TO ORIENT OUR LIFE AND APOSTOLIC SERVICE TOWARD:

• joining the struggle of the poor for the resources and conditions essential for human well-being, recognising that education is central to this effort and our vocation;
• working against racism, sexism and violence of every kind, recognising in these forces a call to become, in truth, women who build communion.

Applications are invited from women, at least 21 years old, of all races and ethnic origins who have a sincere desire to serve and work with the poor and to live simply in community for one or two years, a good sense of humour, flexibility, generosity, a desire to grow in prayer, contemplative attitude toward the woundedness of humanity and a willingness to grow.

Volunteers will receive:

• room and board
• transportation money
• medical insurance
• weekend retreats
• evenings of prayer, reflection and social analysis, an orientation and debriefing
• a reflector and/or supervisor where applicable
• personal stipend of US$150/month
• student loan deferral

If you are interested, or know of someone who may be, write for an application form to:

Natalie Runfola rscj
519 East 118th St.
New York, New York 10035
United States of America
Tel. (212) 410-3465 or Fax: (212) 410-0446

or email: RSCJNYRG@aol.com