Associates of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament founded by St. Katharine Drexel are Catholic women and men, married and single, who desire association with the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament as a means of growth in personal holiness, share in the SBS spirit, charism and ministerial heritage, through times of prayer, spiritual enrichment and celebration with the Sisters and with other Associates, form an organization of persons who enter into a mutually supportive relationship with the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament and with other Associates, and continue the work of St. Katharine Drexel, “…that all people be brought into the community of the people of God.”
What Do Associates Do?
Associates commit themselves, as do SBS, to live out and witness to the values, spirituality and mission entrusted to St. Katharine Drexel. Associates commit themselves to some specific, personal expression of the Associate relationship. This involves praying with and for the Sisters, scripture study, adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, and such works as visiting the sick and tutoring. The ASBS do not live in the SBS communities, and although some associates may work or volunteer to serve in parishes or schools where SBS minister, there is no obligation to do so. Associates often give witness to promoting justice and works of service where SBS are unable to minister.
During the 1990 General Assembly, the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament approved the formation of the Associates of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament (ASBS). In 1992, the first ASBS made their commitment to live the charism of St. Katharine Drexel, and the vision and values of the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament. That same year, ASBS Associate Faith Communities were established in Bensalem, New Orleans, and Los Angeles. Today, there are 238 ASBS in 21 locations throughout the United States.