SCN Associates
In the vibrant tapestry of our global community, over 250 Sisters of Charity Associates weave threads of compassion and dedication across Belize, Botswana, Puerto Rico, India, and the United States. This diverse group, encompassing men and women, the young and the seasoned, those married and single, and embracing both Catholic and non-Catholic members, are united by a profound bond. This bond is the shared spirit of the Charity charism, a legacy illuminated by the lives of Mother Catherine Spalding, St. Vincent de Paul, and St. Louise de Marillac.
We warmly invite you to join us in prayer, hoping that more hearts will be inspired to partake in this beautiful ministry of love and service. Should your interest be piqued, and you find yourself curious about the enriching journey that the SCNA program offers, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are here to share, to guide, and to welcome you into this circle of compassion and communal service.
SCN Associate Vision Statement
The Sisters of Charity of Nazareth Associates nurture and expand diverse, intercultural, and multigenerational relationships across the SCN global family, the larger Charity Federation and other partners to work for justice throughout the world.
Why be an Associate?
- Deepen one’s spirituality
- Build community with Sisters and fellow Associates
- Serve others in compassion
- Carry forward the SCN legacy in the tradition of Vincent de Paul, Louise de Marillac, and Catherine Spalding
International Associates
Currently we have approximately 207 SCN Associates which includes Associates from Belize, India and Botswana.
Testimonials
I wanted to become an Associate to strengthen my life long relationship with the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. The Associate relationship provides opportunities for spiritual growth alongside Associates and Sisters and that nurtures my soul.
Maria M.
It has been an honor to be an Associate of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth for the last 37 years. I have a deep love and respect for the beautiful work they do in reaching out to the poor and needy all over the world … Let us be known by our actions and not by our words alone …
Diane B.
I wanted to become an Associate because I wanted to develop a closer relationship to God through my interactions and support of others who have a similar belief in God. I love the sense of community I have with the SCNs and the Associates. We are one!”
Evelyn F.
SCN Associates Gather for Annual St. Vincent de Paul Retreat
“Vincent and His Gift of Collaboration” On Friday, September 25, SCN Associates from Dangriga...
SCNA Weekend Sees Strong Participation as Relationship Grows
A strong turnout for the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth Associate fall gathering reflected the relationship’s growth as new and longtime Associates joined Sisters at Nazareth Sept. 25-27. The weekend culminated in a ceremony at St. Vincent Church where 18 people made their first commitments as SCN Associates, two renewed three-year commitments, and four made lifetime renewals. Sister Barbara Flores, Provincial of the Western Province, called the gathering a “beautiful milestone” for the Associates and Sisters alike.
A Special Place
Sisters of Charity of Nazareth and Associates gathered at Camp Maria for prayer, recreation and time together. Swimming, boating, evening prayer and quiet moments along the water filled the week, continuing a cherished tradition at a place that holds generations of memories and meaning.
Sisters, Associates Celebrate Summer Season in Boston
Sisters of Charity of Nazareth and Associates in the Boston area gathered July 18 at Catherine Spalding House to celebrate the feasts of St. Vincent de Paul and St. Mary Magdalene, as well as the summer season.
Morris Takes on New Role as Director of Associate Relationship
The Sisters of Charity of Nazareth community gathered at St. Vincent de Paul Church on Tuesday, July 14, for a special liturgy missioning Kaylee Morris as the new Director of the SCN Associate Relationship.
Marching for Men – Companion of Charity Takes Part in UK Fundraiser
Sylvia Jeffers, a Companion of Charity and Associate Candidate, recently completed a fundraising walk in support of Prostate Cancer UK. The event raised awareness and funds for research, advocacy, and life-saving work aimed at reducing deaths from prostate cancer.
SCN Associate Gatherings
Associates and Sisters gather twice a year for quality time to get acquainted in a congenial atmosphere where there is a balance of prayer, education, reflection and fun.
The Formation Process
The SCN Associate initial formation process offers a personalized and flexible approach for someone aspiring to become an SCNA. Major aspects include the use of a Mentor and the SCNA Initial Formation Study Guide. Depending on the individual’s ability to devote time to formation, the time frame necessary to complete the study of the topics of formation will vary.
After an interview, the interested person may apply to begin the Associate formation process.
After acceptance as an SCN Associate Candidate, the person:
- Completes the formation accountability check list.
- Meets during this period with the Director.
- Makes an initial two-year renewable commitment.
- Joins a faith group.
Getting Started
SCN Associate brochures are available from the Associate Office upon request. If a person is interested in becoming an Associate, the Director arranges an interview, provides background reading on the history and charism of the SCN Congregation, and invites the person to the next Associate gathering.