At this standing-room only event, guests learned that Sister Dorothy Stang was an ordinary woman--an ordinary woman with an all-consuming love for the poor, a willingness to live simply (all her possessions fit in one box), and amazing reserves of courage.
Sr. Jon Julie Sullivan, "Let's not put Sr. Dorothy on a pedestal." Photo by Richard Rossi.
In a dramatic, original presentation that included dirt, jelly sandwiches and a chainsaw, Sr. Jon Julie Sullivan gave the audience a peek into Dorothy's life and shared how Dorothy's childhood and education helped cultivate her concern for the poor. Reporter Rita Beamish (NDSJ '70) interviewed David Stang, Dorothy's brother, Sr. Judi Clemens, former co-worker in Brazil, and Sr. Roseanne Murphy, author, "Martyr of the Amazon"). Each brought a unique perspective of Dorothy and spoke about the continuing work of the Sisters in Brazil and the very present, very real dangers today. Marlene DeNardo, a former co-worker in Brazil, gave insights into the faith and spirituality of Sr. Dorothy emphasizing that as her faith deepened, it grew to include all of God's creation. Dorothy saw the forest and animals as a precious part of the world. She taught sustainable farming and how to use the rainforest without destroying it. UK film producer Sam Clements and videographer James Newton ("The Student, the Nun & the Amazon") created a special video for the event which paired Sam's memories of Sr. Dorothy with film clips from their 2003 visit. The result was a delightful, poignant reflection which produced both laughs and tears among those present. While the event is over, it is not the end, but rather the beginning. A chance for all of us to build on the inspiration of Sr. Dorothy and to make a difference in our own corners of the world. "May we all go as far as our courage will carry us."
Special thanks to our collaborators at the Dorothy Stang Center at NDNU--Eli Latimerlo and Cheryl Joseph--and Notre Dame High School in Belmont--Rita Gleason, John Ottersberg and the fantastic sound and setup crew. And a heartfelt thanks to our presenters, sponsors, Sisters, Associates, Bonner scholars, Notre Dame-Americorps folks, friends and family who helped make this event a reality.
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