“The lay associates have the desire to follow Christ, while sharing the spirit of our Congregation, at the same time remaining faithful to their commitment wherever they are.” (GC 2007)
When we perceive a spiritual thirst in some, we recommend them to follow us more closely. Sometimes, the lay people themselves express this desire. We initiate them into a process of formation during which their call to be closely associated with the Congregation is made clear. Then, they submit their request for a commitment. If this request is accepted by the Congregation, then they become Lay Associates.” General chapter p. 21
Lay Associate is a member of the Holy Cross Family. The experience of the unconditional love of God in her/his daily life urges her/him to share it with others, in prayer and service, after the examples of Mother Claudine Echernier and Father Peter Mermier. Jesus on the Cross and Our Lady of Compassion are our constant guides and models.
All the communities in the province initiated the process to identify, establish, strengthen and sustain the lay-associates.