Sister Karen Lueck recently participated in a “Detoxing Unhealthy Christianity” conference/retreat at The Center at Mariandale in Ossining, New York.
This retreat inspired attendees to envision and actively contribute to a more vibrant, relevant, and spiritually alive Christianity for the future. Brother Don Bisson, pictured with Sister Karen above, dove into the complex landscape of modern Christianity and its current challenges and potential for renewal. He addressed the rise of fundamentalism and its impact on religious expression, the emergence of regressive theological trends and medieval rituals in contemporary practice and more.
“Rather than viewing these issues as insurmountable obstacles,” said Sister Karen, “we explored deepening spiritual maturity and cultivating a more nuanced and inclusive theology.” Sister Karen also had the opportunity to share her new book which carries many of the themes explored at the conference. “The Green Thread: Reclaiming Our Spiritual Authority” was released this fall and serves as an invitation to spiritual healing with the rise of Christian nationalism. By engaging with these critical issues, participants are now empowered to play a role in shaping a faith tradition that remains true to its core values while adapting to the complexities of the modern world.
While at the retreat, Sister Karen learned more about preservation efforts at The Land at Mariandale, which includes 61 acres of land owned by the Dominican Sisters of Hope. The land sits on bluffs overlooking the Hudson River. The sisters are very dedicated to ecology and preserving the land with over half of the land preserved in a conservation easement with the Westchester Land Trust, meaning the land cannot be developed and the easement protects that land into the future. Sister Karen shared the photos below and these words from signage located along the land:
"Welcome to Mariandale, a Living Legacy of the Dominican Sisters of Hope. As a community of Dominican Sisters,
we pray that your time here inspires and strengthens your connection to Earth, commitment to justice, and relationship with God,
whatever your faith traditions. Wherever you find yourself on life's journey, may you know the transforming power of Hope."
