More than 40 women religious gathered at St. James Church in Falls Church for the Convocation of Religious Sisters Aug. 29
A representative from each religious order shared with Bishop Michael F. Burbidge and the women present what had happened within their community over the past year. Many had to postpone yearly gatherings and retreats or move them online.
Teaching orders, such as the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary and the Dominican Sisters of the Congregation of St. Cecilia, shared about their plans to open schools. The women also welcomed two sisters who are new to the Arlington diocese: Dominican Sister Alexandra Prosser and Pauline Sister Carly Paula Arcella. Bishop Burbidge celebrated Mass for the sisters before lunch in Heller Hall.