CLA Boston Capstones 2014

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ContemplativeLeaders in Action

BOSTON 2012-2014 COHORT

ii Capstones 2014

Opening RetreatGlastonbury Abbey, Hingham, Massachusetts

Fall 2012

Front: Nicole Claris, Allison Reynolds-Berry, Pepe Ruiz SJBack: Delia Rissmiller, Chris Martin, Jana Strom, Joe Betz, Rich Lumley, Michael Knapp, Will Doss Suter, Sam Schneider, Marina Pastrana, Colleen Deasy, Dan Fleming, Amanda Vallimont, Brendan Higgins

The symbol used throughout this booklet represents the 2012-2014 Boston Cohort of the Contemplative Leaders in Action program (“CLIA” when we first entered, but

officially shortened to “CLA” in our second year, prompting recurring--and animated--discussions of the merits of each acronym). An adaptation of the seal of the Society of Jesus, it reflects the program’s roots in the Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius. Like

the Jesuit seal, it features the Cross at its center, a reminder of the centrality of Christ in our life and work.

Contemplative Leaders in Action Boston iii

Couples ExamenAllison Reynolds-Berry ......................................................................................1

Who is my Neighbor?: An Ignatian Approach to Building Local Community

Joseph Betz ........................................................................................................3

Breaking BreadNicole Claris .......................................................................................................5

The 19th AnnotationColleen Deasy ....................................................................................................7

Career Discernment in ActionDaniel Fleming ...................................................................................................9

Unexpected Off-RoadsBrendan Higgins ..............................................................................................11

[Cr]immigration Law: The Quest for JusticeRichard Lumley ................................................................................................13

CLA Alumni CompanionsChristopher Martin, Amanda Vallimont .......................................................15

Jesuit Networking: jesuitnetworking.orgMarina Pastrana Ríos .....................................................................................19

Tutoring at Nativity Prep School in Jamaica PlainDelia Rissmiller ................................................................................................21

Incorporating Spiritual Reflection into the Busyness of LifeSamantha Schneider .......................................................................................23

Parental and Child Care Leave Policy – Bethlehem FarmJana Strom ........................................................................................................25

Second Sundays: The Ecumenical TableWilliam Doss Suter ..........................................................................................27

CAPSTONES 2014

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Welcome Reception & Advent MeditationJesuit Provincial Center, Watertown, Massachusetts

Fall 2012

Contemplative Leaders in Action Boston 1

COUPLES EXAMEN Allison Reynolds-Berry

Allison Reynolds-Berry graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a Bachelor of Science in psychology and received a Masters in Social Work from Boston College. She previously worked for REACH Beyond Domestic Violence in Waltham as a Community Organizer. She recently moved to Cincinnati and is looking for work.

Background, Overview & RationaleUsing the format of the Daily Examen that Ignatius created as part of the Spiritual Exercises, I entered into a practice of doing the Examen as a couple with my partner as a way to join together in prayer, and increase connectedness and spiritual depth.

I chose to focus on shared prayer, and specifically the Couples Examen, with my husband, Patrick, because we were married in the summer between my first and second year of CLA. I was looking to deepen my own prayer life and to start a ritual of prayer that was both practical and life giving for us as a couple. Patrick and I chose to focus on this shared prayer during Lent as a way to hold us accountable. Patrick’s parents follow a similar ritual and we found their example and experience to be helpful.

LogisticsBefore we fell asleep at night, my husband and I joined together in shared prayer. We used a Couples Examen, an abbreviated form of the traditional Examen, following this format:

• Wow: Recall God’s presence with us and share when we have felt God’s presence in our day

• Thanks: Share gratitude for consolations

• Oops: Noticing where we have missed the mark

• Gimme: Asking for God’s help and continued presence

• Let’s Go: How will you be in relationship with God tomorrow?

We went through this format taking turns each night as to who would facilitate asking the questions aloud.

Benefits/ConsolationsIt has been a great practice to connect with one another and God on a regular basis. Through the Couples Examen, we shared things with each other and God that might not have come up in conversation or prayer without the intention of asking the deep and challenging questions the Examen focuses on. It also allowed us to have a better sense of how and where we see God by sharing what we each identify as consolations. As we shared our desolations, we were able to be more aware of where and when the other is struggling. Those struggles were then known and held by the other partner. With the structure of this prayer, we could share our experiences, feelings, and reflections with God, and allow our partner to be a witness to that. This allowed us to be open instead of asking more questions or trying to solve problems in a way that happens often in regular conversation.

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Obstacles/LearningMost of the obstacles we faced were logistical and motivational. Since we practiced the Couples Examen at night, in bed, before falling asleep, it sometimes happened that Patrick would fall asleep before we finished the formal prayer. I got frustrated by this at first and wanted to go through all the steps. I learned to appreciate his tiredness, finish the prayer on my own, and kiss him good night. It was sometimes difficult to remember to pray, or have the energy, if we were up late or one of us went to bed before the other. The other obstacle was knowing that this was a two-person process and that we needed full participation for it to work. Does the other person want or not want to pray? We gave each other space and allowed the other to say no if they weren’t able to be present to prayer. We knew that there are other opportunities for prayer as well.

OutcomesPracticing the Couples Examen helped us to have a deeper appreciation for each other, to have more patience for the other and those around us, and to grow deeper in love. It has helped to be more aware of God’s presence in our day and the way that we can practice greater reflection on being our best selves. It has also helped us to create a ritual that will allow our family to be rooted in God’s love each day.

The spiritual practice of reviewing my day through the Examen allows me to be more aware of the way that the Spirit moves in my life and in my various relationships, with self, family, and community. I learned that there are ways I can be an Igantian Leader through my relationship with my husband. I had imagined being a leader in my work or in the church but hadn’t thought about it on a relational level. Many of my peers in our cohort were interested in this practice to share with their partners and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my experience with an incredible group.

If God is at the center, there’s always room for others. In fact, there’s more

room.– Paula

as quoted by James Martin SJ, The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything

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WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR? Joseph Betz

AN IGNATIAN APPROACH TO BUILDING LOCAL COMMUNITY

Background & OverviewThis project explored my local neighborhood of Dorchester, MA and how Ignatian Spirituality can be practically applied to one’s neighborhood. The project focused on reaching out to local neighbors and involved preparing, cooking and eating a meal together with Kehran, a 6th grader who lives in Upham’s Corner; inviting siblings Ben, Susan and Song to come over and play with our dog who is named Cleveland; and tutoring Eddie, an 18 year old freshman, in Geometry. The Ignatian component really focused on a few principles of Ignatian spirituality: Contemplative-in-Action, Finding God in all things, the 1st Principle and Foundation and the Examen.

RationaleAll spirituality is local. How does Ignatian Spirituality inform my day to day life, my choice of where to live, where to work and who to spend time with? How do I serve God through my neighbor and how does my neighborhood show me God?

Benefits/Consolations• Got to know Kehran through preparing and cooking a meal, Eddie through

tutoring in geometry and Ben/Susan/Song by helping them interact with the dog.

• Intentional connections with our neighbors through these varied approaches.

• A model of what Ignatian spirituality looks like on the ground in a community through the eyes of one person on one street.

Obstacles/LearningTime and variability of the ways in which I was reaching out to my community. Time is precious and proved a challenge to the project. It became necessary cut other commitments short in order to make space for this commitment. I had originally hoped to have one medium of outreach in the form of food and table fellowship but it quickly became clear that each neighbor had a unique interest and I had to meet them where they were with that interest (i.e. cooking and dinner, our dog, geometry).

OutcomesStrengthened neighborhood ties, awareness of new cultures and personalities, and more experiences that can be used to analyze how well I am living the Ignatian spirituality and leadership training I have received. The three key takeaway questions:• How is the Ignatian principle of contemplatives-in-action present in our day-to-

day lives and how can it be more present?• Who is my neighbor how do I find God in her?• How do I mentor my neighbor and how does my neighbor mentor me?

Joseph Betz is currently a theology teacher at Boston College High School where he teaches grades 9, 10 and 12. Joe received a dual BA/BSW in social work and theology from Mercyhurst University, an MTS from Weston Jesuit, and is currently pursuing an MEd in curriculum and instruction from Boston College. Joe attended St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland and participated in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps in Jersey City. He has been a “Big Brother” for over a decade and is also an avid musician and outdoorsman.

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What did I conscientiously practice as an Ignatian Leader in the process of the project? Application of four components of Ignatian spirituality:

• Contemplative-in-Action

• Finding God in all things

• 1st Principle and Foundation

• The Examen

Use of a scriptural passage from Luke 10:20-37 (The Good Samaritan) for reflection and application to the tangible scenario of a neighborhood. Read, reflected and acted based on the question that begins the story: “And who is my neighbor?” The examen was used before and after the experiences (along with journaling) to process the little moments of interaction with my neighbors: Kehran, Eddie and Susan/Ben/Song. The 1st principle and foundation was a starting-point: How can I praise, reverence and serve God through interactions with my neighbors?

What did I learn about myself as an Ignatian Leader? Ignatian leadership is subtle and nuanced in its outward appearance but really gets at the core of who a leader is and how that leadership is sustained, internally. However, it must be intentional and it takes time and effort to achieve.

What did I accomplish? Relationship-building, connections between neighbors and a tangible and pragmatic answer to the question: “Who is my neighbor?” I also realized that one does not need to go further than one’s own street to apply these principals.

We are neighbors.

– Song

One of the days that Song came over to play with Cleveland, she brought a friend with her. Song is in 2nd grade. Her friend, of a similar age, asked Song how she knew Cleveland and Song said, “We are neighbors.” In many ways, that simple statement sums up the goals of this project.

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BREAKING BREAD Nicole Claris

Background, Overview & RationaleGrowing up in a food-focused home, my mother taught me that cooking is a form of prayer. When you prepare a meal for someone, you are acting as an agent for God to demonstrate Her care for Her children. While I have maintained a busy kitchen throughout my adult life, my service to my wider community has been limited to volunteering for political campaigns. This capstone was designed to get me to further reflect on why cooking is a form of prayer and how I connect with my extended community.

I volunteered in the kitchen of Community Servings, a not-for-profit food and nutrition program providing services throughout Massachusetts to individuals and families living with critical and chronic illnesses. In addition, I read texts on the connection between faith and food.

Benefits/ConsolationsCommunity Servings is an inspiring organization. In the time I was able to volunteer there I had great admiration for their dedication to providing real nourishment for those in their care.

Obstacles/LearningThrough my capstone project, I acknowledged an ongoing health problem. As I addressed my medical needs with health care providers, I considered what it means to be a leader and a contributing member of a community. I have switched my service focus to what can I do today while my health continues to improve.

OutcomesThe three key takeaway questions:

• What can I do today?

• Where do I find support as a leader?

• What do I need to do for myself in order to lead others?

Nicole Claris is Manager of School Programs at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. In this role she oversees over 150 volunteers. Nicole received a BA in History and Art History from The College of the Holy Cross and MA in Art History from Indiana University.

6 Capstones 2014

Welcome ReceptionJesuit Provincial Center, Watertown, Massachusetts

Fall 2012


THE 19TH ANNOTATION Colleen Deasy

Background & OverviewAs my capstone, I chose to engage in a “retreat in daily life” for approximately six months, and completed the Spiritual Exercises through the assistance of a spiritual advisor. My spiritual advisor generously agreed to meet with me on an approximately bi-weekly basis, and offered support and guidance as I engaged with the Exercises.

RationaleI chose this project because, at the time that I decided to do it, I was working as a public defender in juvenile and family court, working for children and families who were involved in the child welfare system. I was burnt out from my job and unsure of what my next steps were. The 19th Annotation seemed like (and was) what I needed in many ways – it offered a restful and life-giving way to be with God and experience his peace in a way that I very much needed at the time. I also felt most comfortable with how I was working to serve God in my daily life, but felt that perhaps the aspect of my relationship with God that could use the most time and attention was my prayer life.

Benefits/ConsolationsThe greatest consolation that I experienced through this process was the deepening of my relationship with God. I was not truly comfortable discussing my prayer life before I engaged in the Spiritual Exercises with the help of a spiritual advisor, but I was truly graced with incredible growth in this area. I felt myself become closer to God, and noticed how richer my prayer became over the course of the Exercises. It was a consolation to become (and notice myself becoming) so much closer to God through my prayer.

Obstacles/LearningFinding the time on a daily basis to engage with prayer was challenging for me and still the greatest weakness in my prayer life. Sometimes it felt (and occasionally still feels) like a chore that I have to do instead of a grace that I get to experience. I’m still working on that, but have found that my concentration and consolation in and for prayer has grown exponentially.

OutcomesI think that before I began with CLA and embarked on this Capstone project, I did not give much thought to the state of my prayer life, or the ways in which my prayer would (obviously) both help me deepen and strengthen my relationship to God, as well as aid and guide me in my leadership and service in my life. I learned about the consolations of prayer, as well as the consolations of being able to apply what I glean and experience in prayer to the actions of my life. I feel that the actions I was already taken, and the service I was doing (and the service that I am doing now) is strengthened by the depth that I have added to my prayer life.

Colleen Deasy is an attorney with the City of Boston, within the Legal Advisor’s Office at Boston Public Schools. She graduated from the University of Connecticut in with a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and earned a Juris Doctor and Masters in Education from Boston College. She previously worked as a trial attorney representing high-need children and indigent parents in child welfare cases. While at UConn she helped found a student organization that pairs college students with preschoolers in low-income and high risk communities to work on early literacy and school readiness.

8 Capstones 2014

Service RetreatHaley House, Roxbury, Massachusetts

Winter 2014

Haley House is a nonprofit organization that provides economic development opportunities, skills training for the underemployed, affordable housing for

the homeless and working poor, and wholesome nourishment for body, mind and spirit. Founded in 1966, it is named for Leo Haley (BC’64) a founding

member of the Catholic Interracial Council who was beaten in Selma, Alabama and died at age 24. More information at haleyhouse.org


CAREER DISCERNMENT IN ACTION Daniel Fleming

Background, Overview & RationaleFrom the beginning of my experience in CLA, I have been considering, question-ing, and challenging, my career endeavors, and these efforts have resulted in my making significant changes in my career. Since first being introduced to then-CLIA in 2011, I have made two significant job changes, including my most recent tran-sition from full-time employment as a college student affairs officer to graduate-level studies in history.

Because career development was a significantly common thread amongst our cohort, and given the level of focus I, personally, had given to my own career development over the past two years, I decided to use my project as an example of one cohort participant’s action in response to discernment of personal and professional development and growth.

Benefits/Consolations• It has helped me to better reflect upon my own self-identify and thus, to better

know myself

• It has been the necessary structure for me to be able to seek God and to listen to God’s call

• It has enabled me to make intentional, thoughtful decisions about my career path

Obstacles/Learning• Pre-occupation with the day-to-day of work/life has often become an obstacle

to progressing throughout my discernment and acting upon it

• Discerning major, life-altering choices and actions require patience as well as trusting in God, that he will lead me along the proper path, even if I am unable to recognize it

• This experience has reinforced a desire to strive to look for the patterns in my daily life when God has been present and how I have responded to his presence.

OutcomesI had recognized prior to the start of our cohort that my previous job was not a particularly good fit, and reasoned that there must be a better alternative. However, through my discernment, I determined that it would be most beneficial to the students and colleagues with whom I worked, as well as myself, that I continue to make the best of my work experience until the proper opportunity to make a change presented itself.

Daniel Fleming is currently pursuing advanced studies in history at the University of Massachusetts, Boston. A graduate of Boston College, he earned an MEd from Suffolk University. Prior to his recent career discernment process, Daniel had spent the past decade as a college student affairs officer at several institutions across the northeast, serving in various roles, including as a track and field coach, residence hall director, club advisor, classroom instructor and housing administrator. In addition to his current studies, Daniel is an intern at the National Archives and Records Administration in Waltham, Massachusetts and serves as a lector at St Mary Parish in his hometown of Franklin, Massachusetts.

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Last August, while I had been casually entertaining the idea of returning to school, I came upon a graduate-level history program, with a focus in archives; the specific nature of this program was very intriguing to me, as it provided an opportunity for me to re-engage in academic pursuits that I first explored as an undergraduate student; On several previous occasions, I had considered returning to school to study history, but had never acted upon such thoughts. After careful consideration and discernment, I decided to pursue the program, which began in January. Due to time conflicts between my class schedule and my work obligations, I further decided to resign my employment in March.

If there is one lesson that I have realized throughout CLA, and my discernment for this project, it is that, as a contemplative, I have the ability to generate ideas, but without identifying my desires (and seeking God’s help in the process through prayer), acting upon those ideas can remain difficult. Discernment has helped guide me throughout this two-year process, providing me with focus and clarity and will continue to help direct me to action in the future.


UNEXPECTED OFF-ROADS Brendan Higgins

Background, Overview & RationaleI chose to participate in the after-school tutoring program at Nativity Prep, a tuition free Jesuit middle school located in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood of Boston. Growing up in the Philadelphia area, I had volunteered throughout high school and college at The Gesu School, a Jesuit elementary school in one of Philly’s most marginalized neighborhoods. That experience has always stayed with me and Nativity Prep seemed to be the logical next step, now that I was living in Boston. Together with my cohort member Delia, I was very excited to begin the after-school program with her. My hope was that over time this would turn into an opportunity where I could mentor one of the students and have a lasting positive impact throughout their life.

Obstacles/ LearningI had left my job in February 2013 as I did not feel my work and time were going to any type of positive change in the world. As time went on I was not finding the work that I was hoping to find and had to rethink my plan. In the meantime I found myself feeling lost, sinking into depression and gaining weight. In August 2013 my girlfriend at the time was diagnosed with breast cancer. The following month my Dad was diagnosed with kidney cancer.

I eventually found a job that was right, however that became the biggest obstacle. Working in Saugus, there was no way I could promise my time to those who needed it based on the hours I’d be working as well as the commute from the office to Nativity.

At first, I was horrified that I had failed CLA and my Capstone but realized my Capstone had already begun in February of 2013 when I left my job. It continued as I stood by my then-girlfriend and Dad through surgeries, tests, successful treatments, failed treatments and all the other day-to-day challenges of seeing loved ones battle cancer.

Additionally I’ve learned that I am able to handle more than I ever thought. Through these experiences I’ve concluded that I want to work in places of sorrow and despair. What exactly that would entail is to be determined. What is important to note is that I’ve stopped forcing myself to fit into something that I’m not meant for. Rather to listen to what I’m being called to do. In the meantime, I’ve learned (come to accept) that organization is my greatest weakness and one that I need to overcome to truly be a man for others.

Benefits/ConsolationsWhile there are no benefits of seeing a then-girlfriend and a Dad go through cancer, while being unemployed, the experience taught me much about my strengths and weaknesses. Coupled with the great experiences of CLA, the seeds have been planted and I now must have the patience to see what comes next.

Brendan Higgins received a BA in politics from The Catholic University of America and previously worked for Mc|K Healthcare as a digital marketing consultant. Brendan participated in the Ignatian retreat in Spain sponsored by the Jesuit Collaborative. He has a long history of volunteer tutoring at a low income school in Trenton, NJ.

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12 Capstones 2014

OutcomesI will be taking an organizational class and simplifying my life with what is truly important. Once this focus happens I can truly determine how and where I can best use my skills in places of sorrow and despair ... Oh and I also lost 32 pounds.

What did I conscientiously practice as an Ignatian Leader in the process of the project? Through times of despair and crisis I was able to take the lead as the youngest son and the unemployed boyfriend organizing friends and family with how best to help my then-girlfriend and Dad. Additionally, I was able to put aside my fears and project confidence, calm and compassion to my loved ones.

What did I learn about myself as an Ignatian Leader? I (like everyone else) has Ignatian leadership in them. It is in these moments of crisis that we see the best and worst of ourselves. The important part is to build on the good parts while accepting and fixing the bad ones.

What did I accomplish? I found I have a new group of friends with a special spiritual bond and stronger a relationship with my family. I was able to see a much better picture of who I really am. Coupled with the strength I received from my CLA cohort I am able listen to what I am truly called to do. I am excited to discover what is next.

The road is our home.

– James Martin SJ

I believe the unexpected off-

roading is where we learn most about

ourselves.– Brendan Higgins

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[CR]IMMIGRATION LAWTHE QUEST FOR JUSTICE

Richard Lumley

Background, Overview & RationaleI was part of a group of 14 first-year law students that created a resources manual and presentation for a nonprofit legal services organization based in New York City that advocates for immigrants. The client asked us to help them better understand how immigration law connects with three other areas of ongoing reform: drug reform, juvenile justice reform, and sentencing reform. Much is happening in these areas that impacts noncitizens, and our client wanted to gather insights for how it might partner with other advocates in their work. To this end, we researched advocacy work taking place in these three areas across the country and analyzed the interconnections with immigration law. I chose this project because it dovetailed with CLIA and my work as a first year law student.

Benefits/ConsolationsThe biggest consolation was working with a group of peers to create a product for a nonprofit that focuses on improving immigrants’ rights. This was the first time in recent memory I worked with a group of peers on a research project. I learned quite a lot about drug reform efforts currently taking place in the United States and their impact on noncitizens.

Obstacles/ LearningThe project began in August 2013 and ended in March 2014. From the beginning through January, our group was assigned an upper-level law student as the leader. However, for the final two months, our group had to finalize the project without a designated leader. This presented some difficulty, as our group of 14 had to work together to make decisions regarding the editing process for the manual, the content and style for a presentation to the law school, and assign roles to everyone to ensure that our tasks were completed as efficiently as possible.

OutcomesOur group put on a presentation at the law school about our work product. The presentation was attended by our client and more than 60 students, faculty, and staff. The client was very satisfied with the manual that we produced, as well as the presentation.

During this project, I was reminded of the four pillars of success discussed by Lowney in Heroic Leadership: self-awareness, ingenuity, love, and heroism. All of these pillars, which are characteristics Jesuit leadership, were necessary for the successful completion of our team’s project. Our group had to understand individual strengths and weaknesses in order to function effectively. We had to continually adapt to assigned leadership and become self-managing. Most of us realized that engaging others in the group with a positive, loving attitude was essential for a healthy group dynamic. This was also essential for staying energized and achieving the ambitions we set forth. Finally, as Lowney discusses, the project served to remind me that, in our work, we all have influence (good or bad, large or small) all of the time.

Richard Lumley is currently pursuing a law degree at Northeastern University. He earned both a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science at Santa Clara University as well as an MTS from the Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University. He previously worked as program director for immersion trips at Santa Clara University and served as campus minister for service and social justice programs at Providence College. He has had papers published and has presented on topics of social justice and immersion trips.

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Service RetreatHaley House, Roxbury, Massachusetts

Winter 2014


CLA ALUMNI COMPANIONS Christopher MartinAmanda Vallimont

Background & OverviewWe set out to develop a program to keep our cohort connected after completion of the CLA program. If successful, will be used as a basis and model for other cohorts and larger CLA alumni gatherings. St. Ignatius called his first followers “companions” - these men worked together to spread their ideas of the gospels and what it called people to do. Ignatian Spirituality was born. We are companions of CLA together and while the program is training us to spread this Spirituality on our own, we must continue to work together, reminding each other of our call.

RationaleAmanda: I had been enjoying the company, authenticity, and community of my cohort so much that even though I was still in my first year, I could not imagine this program just ending and all of us going on with our lives without connecting. If we truly are companions on the journey, we need the support, the constant reminder of the countercultural principles by which we’ve chosen to live.Chris: Staying committed to the ideals and practices of CLA and the Spiritual Exercises is hard. Finding like-minded people to discuss these with and get support from is also hard. Because CLA offers such a wonderful community, it is important to keep it going, to keep the camaraderie, support, and relationships we have developed. Through this, we will be able to continually offer opportunities to each other to expand and grow on these guiding principles as well.

LogisticsRegular opportunities to meet around the tenants of Contemplative Leaders in Action: spirituality, service, and action. Four cohort gatherings are proposed exclusively for our cohort. Four other larger alumni group gatherings will also be attempted, including at least one service day, 1 day of reflection, and 2 organized social events.

Chris Martin is Assistant Director for Advancement at the Jesuit Collaborative. He has a full roster of Jesuit education having attended Boston College High School before earning both a BA and MA from the Lynch School of Education at Boston College and an MA in pastoral ministry from the Boston College School of Theology and Ministry. He has previously worked at both BC and BC High. He embraces the Ignatian spirituality that has been so much a part of his life by leading Kairos retreats and participating in the 19th annotation of the spiritual exercises. He is involved with the young adult group at St. Ignatius Church and has helped to lead a pre-Cana program for the BC Alumni Association.

Amanda Vallimont is a theology teacher and Chair of the theology department at Matignon High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in English/Creative Writing from SUNY Binghamton and an MTS from Weston Jesuit School of Theology. She volunteers as a Eucharistic minister at her parish and has been involved in volunteer prison ministry for over a decade. Amanda is a member of Phi Beta Kappa and is a certified yoga instructor.

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Meeting Schedule:• Opening Prayer (on rotation)• Check in• Guided Questions/Discussion focusing on designated topic• Examen/Closing Prayer (on rotation)• Social time

Benefits/ConsolationsAmanda: The biggest consolation, aside from the prospect of the group continuing, is partnering with one of my cohort members, Chris Martin. Together I am more optimistic that our project could work and succeed. Also, seeing the gratitude from my other fellow cohort members that there will be something to look forward to after CLA is completed makes me both excited and motivated for the project. Chris: There are a few important consolations tied into this for me: 1) We get to find a way to keep our cohort together and mingle with other cohorts, expanding all the cohorts influences and connections; 2) I will have a consistent support group where I can continue to talk about ideas of faith and leadership; and 3) In working with Amanda, who has offered great leadership and guidance in this capstone, we can create our own lasting impact on CLA.

Obstacles/LearningThe key challenge we expect to face is participation. As the second year of our CLA experience is about to end, participation in monthly meetings is dwindling. Without the participation of our cohort members, our capstone does not exist. How can we ensure their participation? Other immediate challenges are location and funding. How can we ensure a meeting location? Should we rely on each other to provide a location or should we look to the Jesuit Collaborative to provide a space? Is it possible to ask for funding, or as alumni, are we to be self sustaining? Additionally, where/how can we develop relationships with other cohorts? Is there a desire for this? And finally, are we taking on too much, particularly, is this sustainable past our implementation?

Expected OutcomesContinue a strong network of support and collaboration amongst our peers, with regular meetings and opportunities for service and social gatherings. Consistent support from cohort members with attendance and further ideas for meetings/gatherings. New programming opportunities for CLA alumni, focused on maintaining the tenants of the program. Connections to and relationship building among other regional cohorts. A sustainable alumni program that TJC can grow and develop as its own within all CLA regions along the East Coast.

What did I conscientiously practice as an Ignatian leader in the process of the project?

Amanda: Throughout the formation of the project overview and logistics, Chris and I practiced collaborative leadership, learning that perhaps in this case, two heads really are better than one. Before committing to this project as our capstone, we held a “test” summer session to try it out. We were willing to take a risk. Perhaps we would find it wasn’t going to work out, or that our cohort didn’t want to continue, or that we didn’t have the necessary gifts to make it work. We knew, however, that if this project was going to work, it would take a commitment (Continued)


to ourselves, the group, and to each other. While again, our project is yet to formally begin, in the process of organizing the project, I think I determined that I have the abilities to be a leader. Rather than wait around for someone else to plan something, I co-made the decision to be the organizer and facilitator. Organizing events for my peers isn’t something I usually am comfortable with, so I took it as an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and dove in.

Chris: There were two great opportunities to practice leadership throughout the process of this capstone. In developing our ideas, Amanda and I came together as partners to form one cohesive project. We did not always agree 100% on what we thought the final product should look like, but we were thoughtful and reflective throughout the process. Through shared discernment and discussions we collaboratively designed and planned our program. In addition, we knew that if we really wanted to run some gatherings on our own, we had to do a test session. This was our time to not only see if the group would be interested in the capstone, but also to see how we, as its initial leaders, could effectively put our plan into action.

What did I learn about myself as an Ignatian leader?

Amanda: I think first and foremost, I learned that I can. My inclination is to shy away from leadership positions and let someone else take the reigns. I much prefer a supportive role. In this project, and in CLA in general, I have been empowered by others to step up and give it a try and not be afraid to take risks.Chris: Most importantly, and this may sound obvious, I learned that leadership, especially Ignatian leadership, is an active process. Many people can fall into leadership roles and do well, but to be an effective Ignatian leader, you have to fully immerse yourself into the process. Many of the aspects of the discernment process were key here as well, particularly knowing when to listen, but also how to listen. As someone who typically tries to jump up and do, tries to solve, I learned that it is okay to take a minute to sit back, engage in the listening and discerning process, and then act. I think that aspect helped me to grow all around into more of an Ignatian leader and I look forward to continuing that growth throughout the capstone.

The Three Companions

Francis Xavier, Ignatius Loyola, Peter Faber

Icon byDora Nikolova Bittau

18 Capstones 2014

Closing RetreatMiramar Retreat Center, Duxbury, Massachusetts

Spring 2014


JESUIT NETWORKINGjesuitnetworking.org

Marina Pastrana

Background & OverviewI am the lead coordinator for the Network Weaver’s group. We are tasked with beginning the recruitment process of people interested in a global Ignatian network. The main objective of our group is to begin mapping the global Jesuit network. I work as part of a team for a new initiative called jesuitnetworking.org.

Network weavers group current mission statement: NetworkWeavers are already at work within the Jesuit Network. They live and breathe the vision of a linked and active community that collaborates and innovates for the Jesuit Mission. They have encountered the Ignatian world and wish to connect to other like minded and passionate members of the Jesuit Network. We believe that a globalized world needs a globalized approach for social change. We acknowledge that the diversity of Jesuit organizations, networks and projects can better serve the world by being connected. NetworkWeavers want to take the first step in creating a new approach for “bottom up” collaboration and are willing to take on the challenge of bringing others into this vision.

RationaleOriginally I had an idea to create a simple mapping platform for Jesuit organizations and institutions that people could access online. As of right now, there is no central location to see all the institutions or projects of the Society of Jesus online. To find an institution or program you have to go to each country or province separately and many are not listed. I had intended to first being with the United States and hopefully get official support from the Society of Jesus to take on this project. Shortly after deciding my capstone I shared my idea with a Jesuit friend of mine. He informed me that there was another Jesuit from Spain taking on a project with a similar objective. Dani Villanueva SJ is the driving force behind the Jesuit Networking project and recruited me to lead the Network Weavers group. Although this project is not the same as my original idea, it is in line with the kind of work I wanted to be doing. I believe in the mission of the Jesuits and want to see it grow and improve.

Benefits/ConsolationsThis project is really meaningful for me. I feel a deep commitment to the Jesuits for bringing me closer to my faith. They have been instrumental in my formation as a young catholic and in developing my commitment to social justice. I have seen firsthand the impact they have in many communities across the world. They are a transformative agent for change in our world, often for the most vulnerable and disenfranchised in our society.

OutcomesThe three key takeaways:• Share your dreams with other people. • Take on the big challenge without fear. The possibility of failure is real and it is

okay.• Know what type of work brings you energy and joy and what drains it.

Marina Pastrana is Manager of Mission Programs at Catholic Extension. She attended Boston College both as an undergraduate where she received a Bachelors in accounting and as a graduate student where she earned an MTS. She is the founder and inaugural program administrator of the Montserrat Coalition which serves low-income students at BC through the office of University Mission and Ministry. She is also active at her parish, St. Mary of the Angels, where she is a member of the steering committee for the tri-parish collaboration, is the Hispanic-Latino co-chair of the parish council, and is the Hispanic-Latino representative on the finance council.

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20 Capstones 2014

What did I conscientiously practice as an Ignatian Leader in the process of the project? Communication styles and negotiation. As I mentioned, this is a different project than I had originally intended. I had to let go of some of my ideas to be a part of this project. It was important for me to keep moving forward even if I no longer had full control of the direction of the project. Ultimately I realized the main objective was the same and I could contribute my own gifts and talents to this project and perhaps help shape it.

What did I learn about myself as an Ignatian Leader? The process of discerning a capstone really helped me to acknowledge my passion for working with the Jesuits at an International level. Additionally, through my time at CLA, I switched jobs from working at a University to working for a national catholic fundraising organization. All the readings and conversations allowed me to discern the direction of my career and also about the kind of lifestyle I wanted to have. Although I really love my new job because I primarily work with poor Hispanic communities, I took on this project because I still wanted to be connected to the Jesuits.

What did I accomplish? We are still in the developmental stages of the project. We are building a core team for the network weavers group with regional representatives from different areas of the world. We are developing promotional material for our stage one outreach efforts. Visit our website for more information.

Network Weaver's Strategy Map

Build Regional Leads Team

Invitation to Jesuit Networking Groups

Missing Weaver's Identification

Regional Education Outreach

Jesuit Network Influencers Identification

A core group of dynamic and visionary individuals will be recruited todirect the NetworkWeavers group within regional areas. They willdevelop and implement each new phase of the Strategy Map listedbelow.

People that have expressed interest in any other aspect of theJesuitNetworking project will be invited to join the Network Weaversgroup.

If there are geographical areas served by the Jesuit Networkwhere Network Weavers have not been identified, an invitationwill go out to members of NetworkWeaver group to send invitationto people they may know in those areas.

Regional Leads will help to distribute information and educateWeavers in their geographic area about current developments in theJesuit Networking projects

In stage 2 of development we will identify "influencers" that are alreadyat work within the Jesuit Network and connect them to the JesuitNetworking Weavers Group

Network Weaver's

Stages of development

Define & ExpandCreate & Innovate

Identify & Build

Network Weaver's

Central Mission

The NetworkWeavers group is the active force of the Jesuit Networkingproject.

Each group within the Jesuit Networking project has a specific focus andmission. The Academic Research group provides the intellectual andtheoretical energy for the project. The Content Promotion and Visual Designgroups provide the material to visually promote and conceptualize the project.

NetworkWeavers are already at work within the Jesuit Network. They live andbreathe the vision of a linked and active community that collaborates andinnovates for the JesuitMission. They have encountered the Ignatian world andwish to connect to other like minded and passionate members of the JesuitNetwork. We believe that a globalized world needs a globalized approach forsocial change. We acknowledge that the diversity of Jesuit organizations,networks and projects can better serve the world by being connected.NetworkWeavers want to take the first step in creating a new approach for"bottom up" collaboration and are willing to take on the challenge of bringingothers into this vision. If this is you? Join us and become a NetworkWeaver.

#linkingJesuitNetwork

AMDG


TUTORING AT NATIVITY PREP SCHOOLIN JAMAICA PLAIN

DeliaRissmiller

Background, Overview & RationaleMy capstone was simply to volunteer once a week with some sort of organization. I wasn’t entirely sure where, but after a conversation with my mentor who is very involved with the school, I decided to go to Nativity for a visit. After my initial visit, I signed on to tutor students once a week for two hours.

Benefits/ConsolationsI looked forward to going to Nativity each week. It was great to connect with another group of people, especially the students, but also the teachers and the other volunteers. Some of the students talked about their families and their backgrounds. They also talked about the subjects they enjoyed or did not like as well as the activities they were involved with in school. I learned how the other volunteers became involved in Nativity, and, as selfish as this may sound, it was great way to break up my typical schedule. The students provided a lot of comic relief as well.

Obstacles/LearningI was a little nervous about the time commitment, but then realized that two hours once per week is really nothing. During some of the tutoring sessions, my role did not necessarily include helping with homework problems, though that was the majority of the tutoring sessions. Sometimes a student needed an adult to sit with them as they worked through their homework to keep them on track. This was challenging at first, but then I was able to recognize the importance of the quiet time and being present even if that meant sitting quietly or reading.

OutcomesOnce the tutoring starts again in the fall, I am planning to continue with this volunteer program. This small commitment forced me to further discern my vocation. I realized I would like to continue to interact and work with a different socioeconomic population and be a part of an organization with a clear mission whether that is through a career or to continue volunteering on a consistent basis.

Delia Rissmiller is the Investor Relations Manager for the Debt Management department within the Office of the State Treasurer and Receiver General of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. She received a Bachelor of Arts in history from the College of the Holy Cross. Delia has been involved with the Nativity Prep School of Boston and has run the Boston Marathon to raise funds for the MGH Pediatric Oncology Unit.

22 Capstones 2014

The Holy Spirit Overshadowingthe Mother of God

Icon by William Hart McNichols SJGift of the artist to the Boston College School of Theology and Ministry


INCORPORATING SPIRITUAL REFLECTION INTO THE BUSYNESS OF LIFE

Samantha Schneider

This project started out quite differently from where it ended up, as I initially chose to do a Capstone that would incorporate a really powerful and spiritual experience I had in Uganda last summer. Once I began to really think through the project though, I realized it would not be something that would be logistically possible to do, given all the demands on my time. This led me to take the same inspiration and move in a different direction—incorporating the spirit of reflection into my daily life through a routine of journaling, prayer, and committing to completing the 19th Annotation in the next year. When I thought more about my experience in Uganda, and what was driving me to do a project related to this, it made me realize that I was really seeking reflection, as I felt that when I returned from Uganda to my fast paced and busy life here, I failed to really incorporate reflecting on the experience, and this in turn led me to feel that I had disconnected with it, and something was missing. Further reflection led me to realize that when approaching most everything, including this Capstone project, I tend to be a “doing” person—seeking out a project, or leadership role, or commitment, even when logistically I am not a place where I can truly give these endeavors the time and energy they deserve. My time in CLA, with reading, reflection discussions, guided prayer, and the monthly examens, has helped me realize that reflection is a missing component of my spiritual life.

This is what led me to decide on a Capstone project based on increasing the presence of prayer and reflection in my life. In terms of the specifics of my Capstone project, I chose to commit to a few minutes of daily prayer in the evening, journaling, including journaling on my Uganda experience, at least once a week, and committing to completing the 19th Annotation in the next year.

The benefits and consolations of this project has been that I have in fact been forced to slow down, and take time to reflect and think, something that often gets lost in all I have to do. The nightly prayer routine has been a great source of comfort, and the journaling has helped me to really take time out to think and write about all the experiences I have been having in the past year or so, including my experience with CLA. I feel that both activities have really nurtured me spiritually and energetically, and have helped me to slow down in a way that feels strongly beneficial. In terms of obstacles, the biggest obstacle has been making the time for this reflection in all that I am doing, and at times even feeling guilty for either not making the time or making the time but feeling it is not productive. The reflection has also at times been painful, in forcing me out of my routine of constantly being driven and busy, and perhaps not acknowledging the full extent of feelings and experiences. My learning has been that I do need to slow down, that I do need to make the effort to incorporate spiritual reflection into my life, and that it is not something to continue fighting or putting off. Another realization has been that it is important to take these steps to nurture myself and my relationship with God, and that part of being an Ignatian leader is focusing on oneself and one’s personal spiritual life, rather than always on focusing on doing for others. I am very good at doing things for others, and finding God’s presence in my life through taking care of others, but am not always as good at

Samantha Schneider works as a clinician in the Preschool Outreach Program at the New England Home for Little Wanderers. She graduated from Kenyon College with a Bachelors of Arts in English and attended Boston University for graduate school where she received a Masters in both Social Work and Theology and is currently pursuing a doctorate. She is involved in the Jesuit Connection, was in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps and is involved in the Former Jesuit Volunteer group. Sam is a member of Phi Beta Kappa and Alpha Theta Xi.

(Continued)

24 Capstones 2014

nurturing myself or my personal relationship with God. This project , along with my time with CLA, has really helped me to realize that Ignatian leadership is not just about others, or projects, or making a difference in the world, but that it starts within. Doing this reflective work has helped me realize that this is not always my natural inclination as an Ignatian leader, but that it is a skill I need to develop and experience as beneficial.

In terms of what I have accomplished so far through these reflective practices, I feel that I have learned about myself, deepened my relationship with God, and begun to learn to slow down and think, letting moments sink in more deeply. I realize that I have a lot to accomplish still, but I hope that I will continue to incorporate these practices into my life and culminate with completing the 19th Annotation, incorporating reflection and prayer into my life in a more full way than I have ever have in the past.


Background, Overview & RationaleBethlehem Farm is a Catholic community in Appalachia that transforms lives through service with the local community and the teaching of sustainable practices, by inviting volunteers to join in living the Gospel cornerstones of service, prayer, simplicity, and community. Caretakers of Bethlehem Farm are individuals who have chosen to live out the cornerstones as members of an intentional community that works and lives at the Farm.

Caretakers dedicate their lives to the mission of Bethlehem Farm for varying lengths of time. Some Caretakers have children or will choose to bring children into the intentional community. It is the goal of the Board of Directors to support the mission of Bethlehem Farm by making the lifestyle possible for Caretakers to be engaged in the work for as long as they feel called. Policy needed to be written to assist parents and the community as a whole in navigating the balance between Farm work and childcare.

Benefits/Consolations• Generating much needed policy to support Caregiver parents, children of

Caregivers, and the Caretaker community as a whole in navigating work-life balance

• The vision of what this policy would look like evolved over time and there are still aspects of the policy that are lacking. For example, work needs to continue to be done on supporting Caretakers that need to take time off from work in order to support a sick family member as well as how to financially support the education of children of caretakers

• The Caretaker Community and Board of Directors have deep, mutual respect for one another and the work towards to the policy was in the spirit of love

Obstacles/Learning• Time was an obstacle as Board Meetings are held 4 x per year and much of

the development of policy occurred in conference calls in the evening hours

• The original vision of the policy evolved significantly over time. There were ups and downs: navigating opinions, wondering if everything would come together, feeling like the amount of policy that needed to written was insurmountable

OutcomesA policy now exists that addresses:• A living wage stipend the grows with commensurate experience• Paid and unpaid parental leave• Child care leave

Jana Strom is currently a staff physical therapist at Massachusetts General Hospital. She attended John Carroll University where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree and earned a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from MGH Institute of Health Professions. Jana has also worked as the Semester of Service coordinator in which she recruited, selected, and mentored students in full time service experiences and developed and taught a 3-credit service learning course. She has been involved in service to low income families and to homeless veterans.

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PARENTAL AND CHILD CARE LEAVE POLICYBETHLEHEM FARM, INC.

Jana Strom

26 Capstones 2014

What did I conscientiously practice as an Ignatian leader in the process of the project?

• Demonstrating justice and care of others• Ingenuity – identifying needs in the Caretaker community, adapting to those

needs, and being part of a team of individuals who thought creatively about how to meet the needs

• Heroic spirit – creating policy that would make life better for caregivers at the Farm

• Acting out of love which empowersWhat did I learn about myself as an Ignatian leader?

• I make decisions from the heart and head. • I am one who takes action. I don’t just reflect on change, I want to be a

contributing member to the change.• I am ever evolving in my self-acceptance. I am good at identifying my skill sets

and the ways I can contribute. I know what my limitations are.• I am not as indifferent or possessing of interior freedom to an end that may

help me to be a happier personWhat did I accomplish?

• I contributed to creating much needed policy to support Caretaker families• I attempted to reflect on my leadership skills and shortcomings through the

lens of an Ignatian leader• I have better language to describe the specific ways I live out my spirituality

and demonstrate leadership in my daily life and secular work environment.


William Doss Suter is Senior Urban Design Planner at Harvard University. He is an alumnus of Boston College, MIT, and the Academy of Architecture in Mendrisio, Switzerland. He recently completed an Ignatian Pilgrimage to Spain and Rome with BC’s Institute for Advanced Jesuit Studies.

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SECOND SUNDAYSTHE ECUMENICAL TABLE

William Doss Suter

The proclamation of the Word of God must likewise take place in dialogue. The men of my generation have

been converts to ecumenism; we were not brought up as ecumenists. Now we have to see to it that students are, as it were, born ecumenists. We have to see to it that ecumenism becomes a quality inherent in theology, as it is an impulse

intrinsic to Christian faith itself.

– John Courtney Murray SJ“Our Response to the Ecumenical Revolution,” Religious Education, March-April 1967

Left: Time magazine cover, December 12, 1960

Background, Overview & RationaleSince its emergence in the shadow of World War II and the first meeting of the World Council of Churches in 1948, the ecumenical movement has grown within most mainstream Christian churches. By 1966, in its citation for honorand John Courtney Murray SJ (BC’26) whose pioneering work on religious liberty and pluralism lead to the Second Vatican Council’s ground-breaking Declaration on Religious Freedom, the University of Detroit declared that “[if] every decade has a dominant characteristic, the 1960s are probably best portrayed as the decade of ecumenism. The genial inspiration of Pope John XXIII has not only opened the windows of the Vatican but also has thrown open the shutters of many minds.”

This capstone project attempts to revisit the exuberant embrace of ecumenism at a grass roots level. It involves gathering a group of “ecumenical pilgrims” that commit to visiting a different church in the Boston area on the second Sunday of each month. The churches visited represent a broad range of denominational affiliations, theological foundations, and worship styles. Each visitation includes:

• Background reading, suggested by the congregation/leadership of the given month’s church, to be completed before the appointed Sunday that illuminates the church’s distinct character/charism

• Participation, to the greatest degree possible, in the church’s corporate worship

• A common meal/coffee hour prepared by the pilgrims and offered to the congregation in thanksgiving for their hospitality and to facilitate shared conversation

OutcomesExecution of this capstone project is scheduled to commence in Spring 2015.

“

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28 Capstones 2014

That they allmay be one

John 17:21

Icon by William Hart McNichols SJ

“”


Closing MeetingLoyola House, 300 Newbury Street, Boston, Massachusetts

Spring 2014

Front: Amanda Vallimont, Jana Strom, Will Doss Suter, Joe Betz, Nicole Claris

Back: Colleen Deasy, Sam Schneider, Brendan Higgins, Kim Smith, Allison Reynolds-Berry, Chris Martin,Delia Rissmiller, Rich Lumley, Dan Fleming, Marina Pastrana

Design: William Doss Suter, Summer 2014

Contemplative Leaders in ActionBOSTON

Documents

CLA Boston Capstones 2014