Community & Spirituality

Catherine Ferguson
From an inspired grade school student
to an international role in justice

Grade school was a pivotal time in my life. The Holy Names sisters who taught me, also inspired me spiritually and professionally. So much so that I joined the SNJM community in the early 1960s right after high school and became a teacher.

My ministries evolved over the years to my current work as the coalition coordinator for UNANIMA International. This non-governmental organization pursues justice at the international level through advocacy at the United Nations in New York City.

“UNANIMA International is a coalition of nine different religious communities with more than 10,000 members working on all continents. We want to bring the expertise of our members to the UN to strengthen policies in favor of women and children who are poor or marginalized, of immigrants and refugees and the welfare of the planet.”

In a way you could say that my preparation for this international work began all those years ago in St. Mary’s grade school in Seattle, Washington under the guidance of the Holy Names sisters. The school boasted a diverse student body and I learned early to appreciate different cultures, races and nationalities. I initiated the steps to develop this particular NGO, shaping it over time, with the help of many others, to be a catalyst of change in a world of pain. With all that is going on in the UN and the many ways that people suffer in our world today it is not difficult to stay inspired and connected to the work I do, because I feel a strong need to try and bring about systemic change in the systems that cause human suffering, which is in line with Gospel values.

Spiritual Offerings

Open Hearth

Provides you the opportunity to weave the threads of mind, body, and spirit as you travel the path of your spiritual journey.

Provides you the opportunity to discover and affirm the gifts and blessings you share with all creation through the union of heart and earth (Hearth) in your life.

For more information about this spiritual resource located in Eugene, Oregon, call Sister Janice Jackson, SNJM at (541) 345-9964.

Namasté

Namasté was formed to offer affordable opportunities for rest, renewal and spiritual exploration. It is a center that provides spiritual nurturance through retreats, faith groups, spiritual direction and training open to all faith traditions. Call Sister Pat McCrann for more details at (503) 283-0199 or email her at: patmccrann@aol.com

Namasté, in partnership with the Sisters of the Holy Names, has two beautiful homes available for spiritual renewal. Each is uniquely situated in a tranquil river setting about one hour from downtown Portland. For more information contact Sister Pat McCrann. (503) 283-0199 or visit the website at www.namasteportland.org

Personality and Human Relations (PRH), is an International School for Adult Development since 1970. It is an in-depth experiential and educational method for personal development focusing on the development of the being, the positive core of each person. Contact Judy Kelly at (235) 272-8943 email: prhwest@prh-usa.com

The Sophia Center

The Sophia Center where art and pottery are dedicated to the celebration and healing of the heart and earth.

Visit the website at: www.sophiacenter.org

Jesuit Spirituality Center

The Jesuit Spirituality Center, located in southeast Portland, offers many spiritual opportunities. Visit the website: www.thejsc.org

Marylhurst University

Marylhurst University: Visit their website at: www.marylhurst.edu and click on Religious Studies.