In advance of the Annual Women’s Seminar 2021 on April 10, we had the chance to have an interview with Danielle Bean to talk about being women of faith! Danielle is the guest speaker for the virtual event.
What have been your favorite tools to bring peace or meaning into your day-to-day during the covid pandemic?
We really need to be rooted in prayer. The slowing down that the pandemic has forced upon us all has been a real blessing to me personally in many ways. My daily prayer life has never been more regular and fruitful! And as far as family prayer, it’s been lovely to realize that as we are all working and schooling from home, we can pray together more naturally as well. Family Rosary in the evening time does not seem like such an impossibility when we are not all running in different directions for sports, work, and other commitments. Prayer brings a real sense of calm and connectedness to our daily interactions. Our shared mealtimes have been more frequent and pleasant as well. Many days, I put a little extra effort into making a nice dinner and it pays off in the relaxed time we spend talking around the table. Nobody has anywhere else to be, so why not make our times together pleasant and enjoyable? Life feels simpler this way.
What are you going to speak about at the upcoming Women’s Seminar on Saturday April 10th?
I am going to be speaking on the themes found in You’re Worth It!, my book in which I look at stories of women in the Gospels and how they relate to our lives today. We will explore the ways that we can grow in our relationship with Jesus, and some of the unique ways we women can struggle in recognizing our self-worth and preciousness in the eyes of God. We all need the reminder that we are God’s precious daughters, worthy of loving and being loved.
What are your thoughts on making virtual conferences work? How can women prep themselves for this event to get the most out of it?
I am so proud of all of us for the ways we have jumped in, made accommodations, and learned new ways to connect in the face of all this trial! Virtual connections have their limitations, but they have many benefits as well. I would encourage participants to set aside time on Saturday morning to spend a little time “apart” where they can focus on prayer, reflection, and all that we will connect about and share. Make this a time for you!
What encouragement would you like to share to women of faith at this time, whether they can attend this seminar or not?
Whether you can attend this seminar or not, I want to encourage all women to recognize the fact that we need each other! Think of the inspiring example of connection that Mary sets for us in the visitation when she goes “with haste” to be of support to her cousin Elizabeth in her moment of need. We need the unique encouragement, support, and affirmation we women can only get from one another. In whatever way is possible during this time of social distancing, make sure you are connecting with your sisters in Christ. You are a real gift to others in this way, and you can allow them to be a gift to you.
