The only permanent fact of all times is Change. We have seen the transition of old B&W televisions to Smart TV and dial-up phones to smart phones. Times have changed and technology has replaced manual work, socialization, relationships, etc.

Amidst these changing times, God continues to call young men and women in many and varied  ways, to form the conscience of society and minister to souls. To help such young women who have responded to God’s call – deepen their convictions, ascertain their goodness and assume a transformative process for a God-oriented journey, the Inter-Congregational Juniorate, (ICJ) located at Bhopal, enveloped in Mother Nature, radiating freshness, provides a package, covering all aspects of an individual’s all-round development.

As a seed matures beneath the soil and comes to fruition, similarly ICJ s a nurturing ground for many talents, allowing participants to identify hidden capabilities and capacities. The syllabus provides an in-depth knowledge of Sacred Scripture, strengthening one’s faith and love for Christ. This training develops a morality that is relational, transparent and courageous.

REFLECTION, RECOLLECTION AND ASSIMILATION

The overall ambience is one of prayer and each one is formed to be skilled and to grow in the art of meditation, personal prayer, experiencing God more fully and deeply.

A total of twenty-three sisters from seven congregations came together to form the 40^th Ruby Diamond batch of this most esteemed institution; each sharing from the wealth of the charism handed over by the Spirit. Classes were led by well- experienced professors, passionate about their subject, leading to interactive sessions which were animated with assignments, questions and doubt-clarifying moments. To direct us in our emotional development we had psychology sessions, opening us to the Healer within and helping us acknowledge the gifted persons we are. Law and Feminism allowed us polish our self-worth and self-esteem to be up-lifters in Society and work courageously for justice and fairness in our world today.

Each week was marked with periods for reflection, recollection and assimilation, allowing each individual to interiorise the well-springs received during the week.  Individuals shared personal vocation stories, enriching the entire group to reflect on the wealth of their personal God-experience. Cultures were celebrated and common nation-wide celebrations were opportunities for each one to exhibit and showcase their talents.

Games and daily recreation strengthened the bonds of team-spirit and collaboration in mutual give-and-take.

GRATITUDE TO THE COMMITTED

Having personally entered into this Institution with many whys and buts, doubts and anxieties, I feel empowered, rejuvenated and stronger with greater courage, deep awe towards creation, with a positive mind-set to ignite the world with love. This place is a haven for each participant who owes a debt of gratitude to the committed Administration staff, all of whom developed the ICJ community into a deep-knitted one of love, providing a comprehensive formation with a view to enabling the participants be effective and productive members of the Body of Christ.

The duration of the package is certainly a time of self-renewal, helping participants to focus and restore the original image implanted in us.

This experience leaves our hearts filled with gratitude towards our major superiors and well-wishers who helped us avail of this rich and bountiful programme.  And so, with Mary, our Blessed Mother, our hearts continue to sing: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour.”

Sr. Deanne D’Souza