Dubuque 's Grand River Conference Center and the Motherhouse on Carmel Drive were twin sites for celebration June 20-22, 2008, when the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (BVMs) gathered to mark the Dubuque-based religious community's 175 th anniversary.

Nearly 500 members, Associates and former members from across the city, country and world convened along the Mississippi to celebrate the "watermarks" that impress BVM heritage. In keeping with the chosen theme, "Crossing the Waters ~ Currents of Hope," the event marked the biblical significance of water, its crucial place in the wellsprings of creation and in the tides of BVM history.

Festivities at the Grand River site combined ritual and relaxation, hospitality and prayer, reunions and introductions, an honoring of the past and some glimpses into the future. Participants explored currents of hope in their own lives and in the life of the congregation as it is poised to embark on the next chapter of its adventurous history.

A second highlight of the 175 th observance were tours of the newly renovated BVM Motherhouse and an extensive display highlighting BVM ministries and commitments. Sunday liturgies in the two Mount Carmel chapels, and opportunities to visit older Sisters at the continuing care retirement residence connected the generations in prayer and community.