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About Us

Cojourners

What is a Cojourner?

Cojourners are baptized persons of any faith who desire to share the spirituality, values and mission of the Presentation Sisters. Cojourners, our lay associates, partner with the Presentation Sisters while they continue their own vocation and career.

In the words of Sister Mary Denis Collins, in a 1986 letter to the priests of the diocese:

"One of the main goals of the Extended Membership (Cojourner) Program is to provide both the congregation and the extended member an opportunity for a common commitment and a deeper level of Christian relationship in prayer and service with the Presentation Sisters. It also provides an opportunity for the congregation to be in greater contact with the laity. We believe strongly that the Holy Spirit calls the laity just as we are called to a deeper living of the Christian life. The membership will come from dedicated prayerful people who share the spirit of the Sisters and collaborate with us in fulfilling our mission in the Church."

Cojourners and sisters develop a partnership through visits, shared prayer and participation in congregation activities and gatherings.

If you are interested in learning more about becoming a Presentation Cojourner, call Sister Darlene Gutenkauf at her office 605-229-8315, cell 319-210-6142 or e-mail: darleneag@hotmail.com.

Featured Cojourner

Cojourner Brigid Swingler

I have been a cojourner for three years. When I moved to Aberdeen, I started attending Mass at Blessed Sacrament Chapel. The sisters were so kind and welcoming. They really make you feel like you are part of the Presentation community.

I decided to become a cojourner after witnessing the work the Sisters do for the community. I was inspired by them and wanted to work with them. The sisters live their mission to help those that are less fortunate. They help in any way they can and are a voice for those that do not have one.

I would tell anyone considering becoming a cojourner that they would make many new friends through this program. They will also be in awe of how selfless the sisters are and all the work they do.



Previously Featured:

Cojourner Brigid Swingler
Cojourner Alice Fellbaum
Cojourner Vega Fahey
Cojourner Carol Welbig

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Evolution of the Cojourner Program

The concept of lay people being associated with Presentation Sisters to travel with us in prayer and service and carry on the charism of Nano Nagle started with conversations dating back to 1968. In 1980 the Presentation Sisters Chapter of Affairs affirmed the concept of extended membership.

In 1981, then-president Sister JoAnn Sturzl established a committee of sisters to work on extended membership. Sister Virginia Calmus became the first director of extended membership in 1984.

In May 1986 the first cojourner brochures and handbooks were compiled and printed and May 7, 1986, brought the agreements of the first two cojourners: Genevieve Bunkers and Carol Welbig. Mike and Jane Sandsmark became cojourners later that year. These four individuals are still cojourners today.

 

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Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary | 1500 North Second Street, Aberdeen, SD 57401-1238 | (605) 229-8528 | lolson@presentationsisters.org