EXTENDED COUNCIL- A DAY OF SPIRITUAL REFLECTION

22ND SEPTEMBER 2024

A DAY OF SPIRITUAL REFLECTION AND RENEWED COMMITMENT

The day of 22nd September 2024 began with a profound spiritual awakening. Guided by the words of the Lord from the Gospel of St. Mark 9:30-37, we were reminded of the timeless message: "If anyone wishes to be first, s/he shall be the last of all and the servant of all." This call to humility and service set the tone for the day, inviting us to reflect deeply on our mission as Sisters of St. Joseph of Chambery in today’s world.

MORNING SESSION: PRAYER AND REFLECTIONS

Our gathering resumed at 9 a.m. in the Aula Magna, where Sr. Elisa Fatima Zuanazzi, general councillor, warmly facilitated the session. Sr. Fabiyola led us into a sacred space of prayerful silence and spiritual openness, guiding the group into deep reflection.

Sr. Philomena, provincial of Tanmaya, provided a concise summary of the previous day's discussions, ensuring that we were all aligned and ready to proceed. Her thoughtful reflection recapped essential insights and reflections, allowing us to carry forward the momentum of the previous sessions into the day ahead.

REPORTS FROM VARIOUS GROUPS

The primary focus of the day was on reports from various groups within the congregation, providing valuable updates on the activities, challenges, and successes of the Sisters of St. Joseph across different regions.

LAY ASSOCIATES REFLECTION GROUP

One of the key presentations came from Sr. Christina, general councillor, who shared reflections from the Lay Associates reflection group. The group, appointed after the 2021 General Chapter, began its work in October 2023. Comprising members from Brazil, Bolivia, Sweden, the USA, and India, the group works to extend the congregation’s spirit and charism into the wider world. Sr. Christina emphasized that the Lay Associates are an essential part of our mission, fostering community, faith, and service among lay people connected to the sisters.

FORMATION AND FORMATOR'S REFLECTION GROUP

Sr. Elisa presented the report from the International Formation Reflection Group, which held its first meeting in March 2023. This group, with representatives from Pakistan, India, Brazil, Italy, Norway, and the General Council, provided insights into their ongoing work. The report emphasized the importance of formation for new members of the congregation, underscoring the energy, passion, and commitment required to nurture vocations.

Sr. Elisa reminded us of the example set by Fr. Medaille, our founder, who tirelessly sought people out, prayed with them, dialogued, evangelized, and taught. She posed thought-provoking questions for our reflection: Where are we present to witness the consecrated religious life in the world today? How much energy and love are we investing in the formation of new members? We were moved to our mixed language group for discussion. We reflected on the formative aspects we need to emphasize in order to live as Sisters of St. Joseph in the light of hope, and how we can strengthen our congregational presence in the world while expanding our charism and spirituality.

At 3 p.m., we reconvened to share the fruits of our group discussions. The sharing was deep and enriching, offering valuable perspectives on how we, as a congregational body, can continue to serve and inspire vocations.

Response to Calls

We also heard from the provinces of Nirmala, Norway, and Nagpur, where sisters shared how they are responding to the mission in their local contexts. These sessions highlighted our interconnectedness as a congregation, providing an opportunity for open dialogue and mutual support.

A Unified Mission: Reflections and Insights

Throughout the day's proceedings, one guiding question remained at the forefront: To what mission does Jesus call us as a congregational body? Each report and discussion reaffirmed our commitment to live out our mission of love, humility, and service. We are called to adapt to the needs of the times, while remaining faithful to our charism, and the spirit of collaboration and shared responsibility was evident throughout the day.

Conclusion: Renewed Commitment

The day concluded with a Eucharistic celebration, where we gathered in the chapel with hearts full of gratitude. The words of the Gospel continued to echo in our minds, inspiring us to embody Christ’s message of service – to be "last of all and servant of all."

As we move forward, we carry with us a renewed sense of purpose, ready to serve with humility and love, following the path that Jesus has set before us as Sisters of St. Joseph of Chambery.

Sangeeta. Tanmaya/IndiaBottom of Form

Irene Sequeira

Happy and enriched reading all the reports wishing you all God's choicest blessings on all your endeavors

Apolonia Sulenta

Minhas preces para que o Espírito Santo continue iluminando nossa Congregação.

SJC Sagar

Grateful for the daily updates.Its very enriching.Remembering you all in our prayers ?

Irmãs da Comunidade Sévigné.

Obrigada pela partilha. Estamos Unidas pedindo ao Espírito Santo luz, força, sabedoria, a cada uma nesta caminhada tão importante para a Congregação. Suas Irmãs da Comunidade Sévigné, Porto Alegre.

Gertrudes Beal

Muito bom refletir sobre as linhas de ação das equipes de serviços na congregação. Realmente o Carisma é consistente. O desafio é ser resposta para os desafios atuais.

Marit Brinkmann, Norwegian province

"How much energy and love are we investing in the formation of new members?" I liked this very much, what sr. Elisa was pointing at. I think it is very important. Let us pray also for new vocations and put energy into this to be in contact with young people, who are searching for religious life also to day. Our Ignatian Spirituality should be stressed even more. God`s blessings to all your work. With love, sr. Marit Norwegian Province.

Sr.Anoopa,Tanmaya Province -India

How much energy and love are we investing in the formation of new members? A good question to reflect and change our ways.

sister barbara marie d'sylva

To live our mission in love, humility & Service What strikes me when the disciples came from their mission they were so elated Jesus told them let us go to a quiet place & pray. Humility is the foundation of every mission Where there is Humility the mission is successful God bless each of you

Eliane dos Santos Alves

Que o Espírito Santo de Jesus ilumine e inspire todos os conselhos provinciais, para sermos sinal do amor de Deus onde Ele nos colocou e nos colocará a serviço do Reino.. Abraço a todas com as bençãos de São José. Estamos em unidade!!!

SJC NAMLI

As we read each days report we get a sense of belongingness and urge to pray for more vocation and to respond to needs of the time as Founder wished.With Love,SJC NAMLI