The term “agrégée” has a rich history dating back to the founding years of the Sisters of St. Joseph. Agrégées were first mentioned in the early records of the congregation, but their presence faded from historical documentation for several centuries. It wasn’t until Vatican II that there was a renewed call to return to the roots of the congregation, leading to the re-emergence of agrégée members across the U.S. Federation.
Agrégées are lay individuals who feel a profound call to live out the charism of unifying love, embodying the spirit and mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph. They are committed to discerning the Spirit’s call and direction through their experiences, living out the charism in active ministries, and forming a community of love. Agrégées are dedicated to living a contemplative life, working for social justice, and witnessing the values and commitments of their community.
At the turn of the 21st century, our congregation initiated conversations and explorations of early documents to address today’s unmet needs and new forms of affiliation. These discussions culminated in the initial gatherings of those interested in agrégée between 2008 and 2010. This was reenforced in the 2013 Chapter, when we stated that we would “intentionally welcome, foster, and develop emerging ways of living the charism, such as…agrégées.”
In June 2018, a significant milestone was reached when agrégées gathered in St. Paul. The retreat, aptly titled “Sacred is the Call,” was a moment of honoring the past while creating something new for the future.
Today, the Carondelet Agrégée Community is establishing a new independent organization, which will be a testament to the enduring legacy and evolving nature of the Sisters of St. Joseph. The formation of their own organization is a significant step in this journey, allowing them to further their mission and impact in the world.
On May 8, our congregation held a ritual celebrating the agrégées as they begin this new chapter. Each agrégée professed her personal covenant statement reflecting a deep sense of accountability to know, love and serve the dear neighbor, and to live a life grounded in prayer, simple living and communal support. Then together, they recited the community’s commitment statement:
"As an agrégée, I make this covenant with God
to live always the charism of unifying love.
I ask the agrégée community,
the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet,
and all charism partners to journey with me.
I sense the spirit and truth
of those agrégées who have gone before
and upon whose shoulders I stand and steady myself.
This covenant is a lifetime commitment,
which I make with the entirety of my mind, heart, and soul."
The agrégée community is a vibrant and dynamic group that draws upon the rich history of the Sisters of St. Joseph while responding to the needs of today’s society. Their formation of a new organization marks a new chapter in their journey, one that is filled with promise, commitment and a deep sense of community.
Walking with the Agregees has been an incredible gift! These women are filled with the charism, with deep faith and with a wonderful devotion to CSJs.
Thanks for this article!