Inherent in these population trends is a responsibility for us to help integrate these newcomers into our society and our Church. We need to train them for leadership roles in the Church and help educate their youth from whose ranks will come the next generation of lay ministry. Those involved in lay ministry must adjust to a broad range of pastoral situations-whether helping console a family who lost their house in a flood, a mother whose son was killed in an urban street fight or an executive ousted in a corporate takeover. Prospective students should keep in mind that a desire to create a hope-filled future for the Church and society is the primary requirement for admission. Major competencies of leadership can be learned.
True leadership is rooted in spirituality.
Repentance and renewal, mass movements, community and commitment reflect the spirit of the age. What better atmosphere for us to ready ourselves for the kind of leadership the Church needs and deserves in the year 2000 and beyond - one that is competent and prepared, healthy and committed, and with a strong sense of faith and service. The Sisters of Charity founded the College of Saint Elizabeth at the end of the 19th century, realizing the growing need to provide for the higher education of women in New Jersey. In the environment of high academic standards, talented faculty and rich traditions created by the College, the Center has become an effective training ground for the laity. In 1999, the College of Saint Elizabeth will celebrate the 100th anniversary of its founding.