Who Are We Today?

CSJ Associates

CSJ Associates Pat John and Mardee Schaefer CSJ Associates Kathleen McGivern and Kathy Poupart CSJ Associates Kathy Young and Mary C. Cooney

What is an Associate of the Sisters of St. Joseph?

Throughout their history, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet have encouraged men and women to share with the congregation the Church’s ministry of unity and reconciliation. CSJ Associates embrace this charism of unity and reconciliation as expressed in the mission statement of the Albany Province:

“Called by God and passionate for the mission of Jesus, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet come together to serve all persons. With a distinctive spirit of hospitality and a particular concern for the poor, we witness to the Gospel message by being a unifying and reconciling presence to a world in need.”

CSJ Associates strive to live the Gospel, manifesting their fidelity to Jesus Christ through prayer, faith and service. Endeavoring to embody Christ’s reconciling presence in the world, they gather in regional groupings, pray individually and communally with the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet and encourage one another to deepen attitudes of wonder, reverence, gratitude, opened to change, growth and loving commitment.

Our History 
In the earliest documents of the congregation from seventeenth-century France, association with the laity in spirituality and mission was a significant facet of Jean Pierre Medaille’s vision for the first sisters. In responding to the call of Vatican II, the sisters encouraged the establishment of associate programs. These associates share the charism but do not intend to be vowed members of the Congregation. In June 1985, ten associates made their first commitment. Read more about the history of CSJ Associates.

How Do You Become a CSJ Associate? 

INVITATION
As you read about this program, you may feel that you are being invited to consider this form of association with the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. A vowed member of the Congregation or one of the Associates may invite you to consider becoming an Associate. 

ORIENTATION
Orientation is a period when you are introduced to the spirit and spirituality of the Sisters of St. Joseph and to the CSJ Associate community in your area. 

COMMITMENT
CSJ Associates participate in a weekend retreat experience and renew their commitment annually. 

How to contact us: 
For further information, contact one of these members of the Albany Province Associate Leadership Team: 

Patricia Pilon, CSJA
Sister Marilyn Vassallo, CSJ

The CSJ Associate Team: Sister Marilyn Vassallo, CSJ and Pat Pilon, CSJA