ORCIE’s executive members were honoured to contribute to the 39th Annual Conference of the Association of Treasurers of Religious Institutes (ATRI), held in Ottawa from September 22- 24, 2026. Through two dedicated workshops, ORCIE offered formation rooted in Gospel values, Catholic social teaching, and the emerging spiritual and ethical commitments of integral ecology.
These sessions supported religious treasurers, administrators, and leadership teams as they navigate mission, stewardship, and ecological responsibility in a time of profound transition for religious life.
Integral Ecology Workshop
Wednesday, September 23, 2026 | Morning Session Presented by Sue Wilson, CSJ & Joe Gunn (ORCIE)
ORCIE’s first contribution to ATRI 2026 was a full workshop introducing participants to integral ecology as both a way of living and a lens for discernment. Drawing on ORCIE’s collaborative work with more than two dozen Catholic congregations, Sue Wilson and Joe Gunn explored:
- The theological grounding of integral ecology, including the call in Laudato Si’ to hear “both the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor.”
- The interconnected nature of ecological, social, economic, political, cultural, and spiritual realities.
- How climate change intersects with issues such as Indigenous rights, biodiversity loss, food insecurity, migration, and health.
- ORCIE’s ongoing development of its Legacy Office, rooted in charism, mission, and long-term ecological commitment.
Participants were invited to reflect on ecological conversion, systemic change, and the spiritual foundations of ecological justice within their own congregational contexts.
View the Integral Ecology Presentation Slides:
Lay & Religious Partnerships Workshop
Wednesday, September 23, 2026 | Afternoon Session Presented by Genevieve Gallant (ORCIE), Darlene O’Leary (ORCIE) with Kelli Di Domenico (Roncalli International Foundation)
ORCIE’s second workshop focused on the evolving and essential partnership between lay collaborators and religious congregations. Executive Director Genevieve Gallant offered formation on:
- How shared charism and mission shape fruitful collaboration.
- The growing role of lay staff in advancing justice, peace, and integral ecology.
- Formation practices that sustain Gospel-rooted leadership.
- Practical strategies for collaboration in administration, finances, and ecological advocacy.
Members of religious congregations joined the session to share firsthand experiences of how lay collaborators are becoming key carriers of mission, especially in ministries connected to ecological justice and systemic transformation.
ORCIE remains committed to accompanying religious congregations across Canada as we work together for a more just, sustainable, and inclusive world.