Paulist Associates

One of the newer additions to the Paulist Fathers is the Paulist Associates, a group of lay people who, after careful prayer and discernment, pledge to actively work with and pray for the Paulists.

What is a Paulist Associate?

A Paulist Associate is someone who belongs to a voluntary association of men and women who, for spiritual and apostolic reasons, seek to identify with the Paulist Community. Through their free association, they grow in the spirituality of the Paulist Founder, Fr. Isaac Hecker, and of the broader Paulist Community. In their personal lives, they look for opportunities to reflect the fundamental Paulist apostolic commitments to evangelization, ecumenism and reconciliation. Through their involvement as Paulist Associates, they spiritually support and are spiritually supported by the Paulist Community.

Membership as a Paulist Associate is open to any practicing Catholic or practicing baptized member of another Christian ecclesial group, provided they are committed to the ideals and mission of the Paulist Community. Membership extends to men and women, lay people, religious and clergy, and anyone mature enough to make a commitment to grow spiritually.
Paulist Associates explore the implications of Paulist spirituality through prayers, study, discussion, sharing and fellowship. They also explore how the Paulist spirit and charism can be exercised in their own personal and professional lives

This happens through regular small sharing groups formed with other Associates who have committed themselves to this process. Though not “volunteers” or actual members of the Paulists, they have the opportunity to embody the ideals of the Community in their daily lives through the opportunities of their various walks of life to which God has called them. In their group gatherings, they may decide to initiate some particular apostolic project.

To find out more…
The Paulists regularly conduct information sessions about the Associate Program. These sessions explain the program in more detail and provide forum for answering questions. Not everyone is called to be an Associate. But if you know the Paulists and if you are committed to their vision, then you should explore how your life can be enriched by being a Paulist Associate.

For more information, please contact the Newman Center office at (614) 291-4674.