Cycle One
Congregational Meetings
Fall 2003/Winter 2004

The first discernment cycle took place in the fall of 2003 and early in 2004. This cycle involved meetings within each individual congregation where all the information about the Cluster process was presented to members. The Sisters then were able to ask questions and share their hopes and fears about the Cluster. There was an opportunity to consider the potentials of being involved in this process and to choose ways for each member to participate. It was our initial step on the journey, calling forth our ownership and commitment to what will follow.

Purposes:
• to inform and clarify regarding the discernment process (plan, process, actions, timeline, etc.)
• to place discernment within the heart of our Dominican tradition, values, and experiences
• to discover the potentials within the process
• to consider the modes of participation suggested and to ritualize individual choice of participation
• to receive questions, suggestions, alternatives for CCC reflection
• to gain ownership and commitment individually and communally