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Donna Humphrey, an associate with the Sisters of Humility of Mary and a member of the OPAL Leadership Team, shares with us some important and interesting observations:
"Of all the people we talked to, NO ONE had ever heard of Associate programs "in religious communities before. It is obvious that we are one of the best kept secrets around.
"There were many Christians, non-Catholics at the event, drawn by the Christian music groups. But they were also interested in learning about associate programs. They wanted to know if you had to be Catholic to join and as we explained the relationships that developed with the sisters and priests and the deepening of faith through these relationships, we could see that being a Charism Carrier appealed to them.
"There are many young people on fire for the faith. In our religious communities and associate programs, there are not many young people who are active participants.
"Outreach is important! We must go to them to evangelize, and not wait for them to 'find' us."
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