The Committee of Twelve (CO12)

Perhaps not even the originators can fully identity where the inspiration came from, but well over year ago now, Maryknoll priest Ken Thesing MM had a notion that it might be time to put together a representative group from the four Maryknoll expressions, arrange for them to be in regular scheduled conversation and see what evolved.  He initially brought this notion to Sister Claudette LaVerdiere MM and to fellow Maryknoller, Joe Healy MM. They named it, “The Committee of Twelve” (3 representatives from each expression – Affiliates, Lay Missioners, Priest/Brothers & the Sisters).

Ken Thesing MM & Claudette LaVerdier MM

If my memory is accurate, the group first came together in October of 2020.  It has met virtually just about once a month each Thursday since then. It would be an understatement to say that the Committee has flourished.   The themes discussed – mission today, contemplation, climate change, clericalism, sexism, racism, synodal pathways, new paradigms, etc., - have been legion.  The CO12 also sponsored a Maryknoll wide virtual Conversation (two time frames) that received very positive feedback.  Also, very telling are the levels of energy and enthusiasm that have been sustained since the first meeting over a year ago. That doesn’t happen very often unless something is understood to be important and hope engendering.  Last, and most importantly, a strong bonding and genuine sense of community has continued to grow among all of us.  Each person has equal voice and equal respect.  We don’t see each other as separate, protected silos, but as joined expressions offering a unique perspective within the Maryknoll family.

 The Committee of Twelve is still evolving.  There is no felt need to prematurely claim (or protect) a fixed identity. Like several other groups and initiatives within Maryknoll, The CO12 gives us a hint at a way we might move into the future.