About the Oratory

The Oratory of St. Catherine of Siena is a constituent ministry of the Independent Catholic Christian Church (www.inclusivecatholics.com). Its primary focus is on ministry and prayer for the “Shalom” of the world, the church, and individuals.

The Hebrew word “Shalom” means “Peace,” but it is a peace that means far more than just the absence of conflict. It more fully means “wholeness,” which includes health in all of its various forms.

The Oratory has a special concern for the “Shalom” of Jerusalem, praying and acting for the conflict there and in the Middle East in general. Since the Chaplain lives in the North Shore of the Greater Boston area, she also has a deep concern for that city as well.

Because “Shalom” is an inclusive concept, the Oratory’s ministry also includes actions and prayers for social justice, especially those that affect the city.

The sacraments are an integral part of healing and peace, and one of the goals of the Oratory is to make them available to all baptized Christians, regardless of denomination, race, sexual orientation, gender identity or presentation, or any other label that divides us. Baptism, marriage, confession, and anointing for healing are open to all. One of the hallmarks of the Independent Catholic Christian Church is that we are “joyfully sacramental” and the Chaplain welcomes requests for ministry.

Occasional services of “Prayer for the Peace of Jerusalem” are held in the Boston area, and a regular service on the North Shore is held on most Sundays in Beverly. Contact The Rev. Sandra Hutchinson at beguine2@yahoo.com for more information, or if you would like to receive any of the sacraments.

God bless you.