On July 7, the Ignatian Spirituality Project (ISP) of New Orleans came together for an evening of celebration, honoring Sr. Dot Trosclair, OP, for her years of generous service and spiritual leadership. The gathering included a festive dinner, a toast of gratitude, and an atmosphere filled with laughter, stories, and deep appreciation.

Yvonne Hymel reflected on Sr. Dot’s vital contributions, both to ISP and in her role as Director of the Archdiocesan Spirituality Center. “Meeting with the team facilitating the retreats in preparation, she stirred the Spirit,” Yvonne said. “Then like Jesus, she sent us forth to bring the Good News.” Sr. Dot’s ability to help retreat leaders reflect on and deepen their spiritual experiences made a lasting impression. “She ministered to the ministers,” Yvonne added, comparing the post-retreat gatherings with Sr. Dot to the way Jesus welcomed back the disciples after their journeys.

Many of those gathered reflected on Sr. Dot’s work as a minister for the Archdiocese of New Orleans. One of Sr. Dot’s most enduring legacies is her leadership in growing the ministry of spiritual direction throughout Louisiana. With a clear vision and determined spirit, she worked with bishops across the state to gain support for lay spiritual directors. At the start, only one training program existed. Through her efforts, programs were added in Baton Rouge and Grand Coteau, opening doors for hundreds of people to receive spiritual direction.

Susan Rodriguez, who coordinated ISP retreats for women in recovery, shared how Sr. Dot personally supported her and the team. “She offered to be the spiritual director for the team,” Susan recalled. Sr. Dot met with team members before each retreat to help them prepare spiritually and identify any burdens they carried. After each retreat, she facilitated a spiritual debriefing, helping the team reflect on their experiences. “She also offered mornings of prayer and reflection twice a year,” Susan noted. “She was so generous with her time, interest, and affection for the team. She will be sorely missed by the ISP New Orleans women’s retreat team.”

The evening was a beautiful expression of gratitude for Sr. Dot’s compassionate presence, spiritual wisdom, and tireless dedication. Her legacy continues in the lives she touched and the ministry she helped build.