COUNCIL EXTENDED 2024 - EMBRACING DIVERSITY, ENSURING SECURITY

EMBRACING DIVERSITY, ENSURING SAFETY

26^th Sept 2024

This morning, the warm autumn sun cast a golden glow over the tranquil Lake of Nemi, leading us to prayer in the same language group. Reflecting on the Gospel (Lk 9:7–9), where Herod expresses his worry and curiosity about the new prophet, we shared our thoughts. We emphasized the importance of listening. Though many voices may speak to us, we must recognize the Lord's gentle whisper in our hearts. We prayed for the grace to listen without prejudice and for the light within us to grow in love as we place ourselves in the Lord's hands.

At 9.00 am, the participants of Extended Council, arrived at the Aula Magna.  Sr. Cristina, the coordinator of the day, greeted everyone. The prayer, led by France-Belgium, began with the Sign of the Cross in Portuguese, followed by a French hymn that brought us into the spirit of interculturality. In a Pentecostal spirit, we greeted our neighbors, speaking in different languages yet understanding the universal language of the heart.

INTERCULTURALITY IS A DECISION OF THE HEART

Sr. Celine briefly presented the report of Interculturality Commission.  Living   an intercultural lifestyle is a "decision of the heart", a vocation, a gift of grace, a process of personal and community conversion.  Sr. Dolores highlighted that while our General Council members come from different cultures, the struggle to find common ground is challenging. It is a matter of the heart, not just about food or customs. If we cannot speak the language of the heart, we will never truly be intercultural. Our General Team serves as a model for us in this regard. Some beautiful pictures from various countries illustrated how practicing interculturality and multiculturality leads to nonviolence, transformation, relationships, unity, and inclusiveness.

A CALL TO IGNATIAN SPIRITUALITY

Sr. Cristina emphasized the importance of following Ignatian Spirituality as she presented a guideline note from Sr. Jean Sauntry, USA. The note encourages young people to develop a daily inner journey, using a well-structured tool rooted in the Ignatian methods of meditation and contemplation. This approach offers a focused path for deepening one's spiritual life. 

ICC CHAMBERY WORLD NEWS

Amidst our deep engagement with the proceedings of the Extended Council, Sr. Laveena from the ICC Commission brought us a refreshing update on the events unfolding around the world, enriching our awareness and broadening our perspective.

URGENCY OF SAFEGUARDING POLICY

Sr. Dolores and Sr. Antonia emphasized that safeguarding policies are essential for the protection of vulnerable individuals, including minors, the elderly, and those at risk of social media or power abuse. It is not optional; every province must have a policy in place by December 31, 2024. These policies focus on prevention, protection, compliance, codes of conduct, education, awareness, and training—urgent needs for our time. Implementing a safeguarding policy ensures a safe environment for all. As an international congregation, we are required to adhere to both international laws as well as civil and canonical regulations.

CREATE A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL

The day concluded with a Eucharistic celebration, fostering a spirit of intercultural understanding and reinforcing the importance of safeguarding practices in creating inclusive and protective environments. This echoed the words of Jesus: "Let the little children come to me; do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." He placed His hands on them and blessed them. As Sisters of St. Joseph of Chambery, the day was guided by the wisdom of St. Ignatius: "Love is shown more in deeds than in words."

Sr. Clara, Pachmarhi/India

Irmã Adriana Aparecida Romão

La comunione ci unisce a tutta l’umanità. Possa Dio continuare a ispirare tutte noi, Sorelle di San Giuseppe.

Irmã Adriana Aparecida Romão

A comunhão nos une a toda a humanidade. Que Deus continue inspirando a todas nós, Irmãs de São José.

helga.zottis@ hotmail.com

Em unidade sempre com vocês , queridas Irmãs.Grande a abraços.Irs. Genoveva e Helga.Brasil RS

Idgah Community Pachmarhi Province

May we as members of the Josephite family be able to speak the language of the heart and live an intercultural lifestyle. Praying for all the members of the extended council.

Sagar community

Beautiful presentation. Congratulations.

S.Ancy ,Nirmala province

Thank you for the short but beautiful message on interculturality and the need for Listening.

Fox Rock Community, Pachmarhi

We appreciate and thank you for the sharing on Interculturality.

Sr.Anoopa Tanmaya Province

Communion of the Heart: Beyond Human Language,very beautiful.