Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

The School Sisters of Christ the King conducted their Chapter of Elections on March 3 at Villa Regina Motherhouse in Lincoln. Mother Margaret Mary was reelected as Mother General for a second term. Sister Mary Angela was appointed as the new Vicar General, with Sister Mary Gabriel, Sister Peter Marie, and Sister Mary Agnes elected as Councilors.

In religious communities, a general chapter is tasked with safeguarding the institute's charism and promoting renewal according to the founder's vision. "Chapter is a beautiful time to express unity in charity, and to promote a greater vitality to the nature, purpose, spirit and character of the institute," said Mother Margaret Mary.

Father Gary Coulter, co-vicar for religious in the Diocese of Lincoln, explained that while superiors are responsible for daily decisions within their order, they exercise authority in service and obedience to God's will. He noted that "the supreme authority" in an institute of consecrated life is not the superior but rather the general chapter (Canon 631 §1), which represents all members or fully professed members in final vows. The general chapter addresses significant matters such as constitutional changes or electing the supreme moderator.

Superiors do not govern alone; they have vicars who can act on their behalf when necessary and a council to assist them. Father Coulter emphasized that there should be consultation and listening by superiors who govern with concern for all members' participation.

Founded by Bishop Flavin in 1976, the School Sisters of Christ the King held their first General Chapter in 2001. They were established as a Religious Institute of Diocesan Right in Lincoln's Diocese in 2017. Their mission focuses on Catholic education with contemplative spirituality dedicated to belonging entirely to Christ.

Father Coulter described how solemnity and prayer marked the March 3 elections at Villa Regina Motherhouse: "The sisters have been praying to the Holy Spirit for almost a full year leading up to the elections." The voting process involves secret ballots counted by elected tellers before electing each office—superior, vicar, and three councilors—for six-year terms.

He concluded by encouraging prayers for leaders: "Pray that all leaders elected will be examples of virtue...and 'strive to build a community...in which God is sought and loved before all things' (Canon 619)."

For more information about this religious community visit www.cksisters.org.