06/23/2026
ROOTS OF CARING PROGRAM STRENGTHENS THE NEXT GENERATION OF CARMELITE MISSION LEADERS
GERMANTOWN, N.Y. — The Carmelite System and the Avila Institute of Gerontology have concluded the final in-person module of Roots of Caring: A Carmelite Mission and Formation Program, bringing together leaders from Carmelite-sponsored ministries for three days of reflection, formation, and renewed commitment to Catholic healthcare and compassionate service.
The June 17–19, 2026 gathering marked the culmination of a six-month journey designed to educate and form lay leaders who will help sustain the mission and values of the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm for generations to come. The program emphasizes values integration, Catholic identity, and the healing ministry entrusted to those who serve older adults and the infirm.
Through presentations, dialogue, case studies, personal reflection, and group discussions, participants explored how mission becomes a lived experience. The curriculum provided a deeper understanding of the history and heritage of the Carmelite Sisters, the structural framework of the Catholic Church, and the importance of Catholic Social Teaching in healthcare ministry.
The final module featured presentations by Mother Mary Rose Heery, O.Carm., who spoke on how sponsorship shapes and strengthens organizational culture; Sr. M. Peter Lillian Di Maria, O.Carm., Director of the Avila Institute of Gerontology, and Sr. Mary O’Donovan, O.Carm., who explored mentoring and mission-centered leadership; and Trish Gathers, CEO of The Carmelite System, who presented stewardship as a holistic responsibility rooted in compassion, accountability, respect, and engagement.
Additional sessions led by Sr. Annelle M. Fitzpatrick, CSJ, Ph.D., and Shane Cooney, BA, SHRM-CP, addressed religious diversity and reasonable accommodations in the workplace, problem-solving and conflict resolution, and the importance of emotional and spiritual intelligence in effective leadership. These discussions underscored the importance of fostering cultures of dignity, understanding, and collaboration.
The program concluded with final project presentations, followed by a prayer service and graduation ceremony celebrating participants who completed the formation experience.
“Formation is essential to preserving mission,” said Trish Gathers, CEO of The Carmelite System. “Roots of Caring helps cultivate leaders who understand that stewardship is not simply about managing resources, but about caring for people, nurturing culture, and ensuring that the healing ministry entrusted to us continues with integrity and love.”
Mother Mary Rose Heery, O.Carm., Prioress General of the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm, emphasized the importance of passing on the charism that has guided the congregation since its founding.
“The ministry entrusted to us is far greater than any one generation. Through formation, we invite others to share in the healing mission of Jesus and to carry forward the values of compassion, dignity, and love that have always defined the Carmelite spirit. Roots of Caring ensures that this sacred mission will continue to flourish through leaders who understand not only what we do, but why we do it.”
Established to prepare leaders for service in ministries sponsored or served by the Carmelite Sisters for the Aged and Infirm, Roots of Caring reflects the shared commitment of The Carmelite System and the Avila Institute of Gerontology to forming servant leaders grounded in faith, compassion, and human dignity.
“As healthcare continues to evolve, preserving mission requires more than operational excellence,” said Sr. M. Peter Lillian Di Maria, O.Carm., Director of the Avila Institute of Gerontology. “It calls for leaders who are spiritually grounded, deeply formed, and committed to carrying forward the healing ministry of Jesus with wisdom, compassion, and hope.”
The Difference Is Love.
Learn more:
Carmelite System Inc https://www.carmelitesystem.org/
Avila Institute Gerontology https://avilainstitute.org/
Carith Ministries: https://www.carithministries.org
Email: [email protected]
Kahl Home for the Aged and Infirmed D'Youville Life & Wellness Community St Patrick's Manor Cabrini of Westchester Carmel Manor Mother Angeline McCrory Manor and The Villas at Saint Therese Garvey Manor
