At this weekend's joint meeting, the Affiliate Board, in consensus with the Regional Coordinators, agreed to accept the recommendations of the EMEC and affirm the Affiliate Regional Model! As you know, the Affiliates have been engaged in an experimental period dedicated to developing more regionally-based Affiliate connections and strengthening our experience as small mission communities. The Experimental Model Evaluation Committee (EMEC) gathered broad input on the experience of the model, seeking feedback from the Regional Coordinators themselves, Affiliates participating at last summer's MAC 2011 Conference and Affiliates in Chapters through a reflective questioning, heart sharing process. The model of evaluation utilized was that of Appreciative Inquiry. Some learning highlights of the evaluation report include:
- Development of a regional identity has been very varied. While the regional 'identity' is manifesting itself in a widely variable, uneven and haltering way, it is emerging.
- There is a creative tension in the Affiliates between local/ Chapter identity and interest in the international life of the movement that influences our communication.
- Several emerging themes or "dreams" surfaced including community, Maryknoll connection, spirituality, communication, formation of chapters, youth, increasing diversity, global vision and action.
