LCWR Shows True Leadership


The Leadership Council of Women Religious (LCWR) met recently in Scottsdale, Ariz., to discuss"Leadership in a Global Community." The social justice section of the meeting focused on three critical issues: racism, migration, and the climate crisis.

 At a time when religious communities are undergoing diminishment and downsizing, I was struck by the fact that these leaders were not looking at their own situation, but focused on the major issues facing our country today. Racism amidst a climate of white supremacy and anti-immigrant attitudes is causing widespread division and violence. Migration is creating another barrier between a Christian stance of welcome and a fearful wall of rejection. And the climate crisis is about our very survival on our planet devastated by pollution, waste, and alarming warming trends. 

 Also during the meeting the assembly composed a letter to send to President Trump regarding political rhetoric. The letter states in part, "We implore you to never use language that disrespects, dehumanizes, or demonizes others. We expect our president, and all who serve this nation as leaders, to be always mindful of the common good and the dignity of each and every person. You hold a position that has the potential to inspire the best of every one of us and we ask you to use this unique status to bring about healing and never seek to create division."

 As the presidential election year looms, these religious leaders are concerned about the climate of hate and divisive speech that permeates our country. They are calling for respect and healing and unity. 

 These women religious leaders, representing nearly 40,000 sisters (2014) in the U.S., are speaking out about the future of our country, not worried about their own survival. 











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