In early October 2025, more than 20 inspiring Black women religious gathered in Philadelphia for four days filled with leadership, spirituality, and self-care. The atmosphere was peaceful and nurturing, blending prayer, skill-building, and storytelling to strengthen their leadership within the Church and beyond, all grounded in serenity and thoughtful intention.

 

A warm beginning: Arrival, welcome, and setting intentions

The event kicked off with a relaxed check-in and a communal dinner, hosted comfortably in the Sister Angelique Geay Room by the Retreat Team. This gentle start introduced everyone to the week’s schedule and included a useful Leadership Indicator Tool to help participants reflect and see their growth. The evening wrapped up with an Open Ritual led by Sister Barbara Beasley, RGS, and friendly social time with wine and cheese—creating a wonderful space for new connections and sisterhood.

 

A day of awakening and reflection: Tuesday’s gentle rhythm

Morning began with a hearty breakfast and prayer led by Sister Josita Colbert, SNDdeN. Reflective discussions followed, touching on leadership, calling, experiences, and hopes. Attendees enjoyed personal journaling and small-group sharing, which led to richer insights.

 

Later, Mass provided a beautiful moment to connect before diving into self-care. The first Self-Care Workshop focused on Foundations of Self-Care as Leadership, introducing the SAVERS routine (Silence, Affirmations, Visualization, Exercise, Reading, Scribing) and including breathing exercises and journaling prompts like “What am I carrying that is not mine to carry?” A heartfelt letter-to-self exercise offered encouragement, with letters mailed back 30 days later to support ongoing self-care.

 

A midweek pause: Wednesday’s focus on spiritual leadership and healing

Wednesday’s morning prayer welcomed another day of reflection. The focus was on Leadership in Our Congregations—highlighting spiritual leadership, human connection, and healing from life’s surprises. Personal stories in a panel encouraged deep reflection and group sharing, culminating in a unifying Mass.

 

A gentle two-hour Self-Care Workshop helped everyone Reset, Rejuvenate, and Re-align through chair yoga, guided meditation, and sound healing. Participants reflected, journaled, and crafted a Self-Care Promise plan, then prayed together for renewal. The day emphasized resilience and caring for oneself and one’s mission.

 

Listening in leadership: Thursday’s joyful wrap-up and farewell

The final day opened with breakfast and a meaningful Morning Prayer and Closing Ritual. Attendees shared feedback and received a closing blessing. The retreat culminated in a Mass filled with gratitude and grace. Everyone departed, carrying the inspiration to lead with courage, compassion, and faith in a peaceful, intentional space.

 

What’s next for NBSC? As they look ahead to 2026, NBSC envisions a bold plan rooted in peace:

• Preserving stories of Black sisters to highlight leadership, spirituality, and community impact.

• Growing outreach and partnerships to share their mission more widely.

• Developing wellness resources tailored for Black women religious, from mental health support to self-care tools.

• Advocating for justice by emphasizing Catholic social teachings and mobilizing members for action.

 

As we celebrate this year’s retreat, the message is clear: sustainable leadership for Black women religious depends on regular, intentional renewal. Our ministries in parishes, schools, healthcare, and social outreach demand resilience and clarity. Prioritizing rest, renewal, and well-being isn’t a luxury but a vital habit for lasting impact.

 

We invite sisters, allies, and partner communities to support more retreats, workshops, and programs focused on rest and recovery as crucial parts of leadership. By integrating quiet moments, reflection, and restorative practices into our routines, we help Black women religious lead with renewed energy, creativity, and joy. These investments will strengthen communities, inspire healthier ministries, and foster a Church committed to holistic service grounded in peace.

 

This gathering reaffirmed a simple truth: strong leadership in the Church is built on a supportive, well-nourished sisterhood. Attendees left with practical tools, renewed faith, and a deeper sense of community, ready to carry their leadership into action—guided by hearts dedicated to peace and serenity.