Caxias do Sul Provincial Chapter

The Sisters of the Province of Caxias do Sul met in Garibaldi in the south of Brazil May 19 to 22 for their second chapter session.  Their goals were to study the plan for the Province 2011-2015, the form of government for the next three years and the competencies required, and to elect a new Provincial Council.

Sally Hodgdon, the Superior General and Ieda Maria Tomazzini, General Councilor, were present during this decision making time for the Province, and encouraged the Sisters in living the charism of communion. They emphasized the need for personal growth through prayer, listening to the Word of God and discernment, in order to be signs of unity in the communities, the Church and the world.

Discipleship was the theme for the chapter. Sister Marian Ambrósio (Sisters of Divine Providence), President of the Conference of Religious in Brazil, guided the proceedings. During the discernment for choosing the Provincial Team, the Sisters were directed in a prayerful process which helped all participating to adopt and accept a plan for living and priorities for the coming three years.  Once these were voted on and accepted, the director guided the group in their choice of Provincial, Councilors and Alternates.

The assembly remained open to the action of the Holy Spirit, attentively welcoming the guidance provided, opening themselves to the journey ahead.  The following Sisters were elected: Anita Maria Pastore – Provincial Superior; Anari Felipe Nantes and Lourdes Maria Frigotto – Provincial Councilors; Rosa Maria Porangaba and Sueli Maria Zanatta  –  Alternates.

See the photos.