Provincial Meeting of Sisters up to 60 years old/Brazil

 Bonds, Care, and Safe Communication

From July 18 to 20, 2025, in Patrocínio – Itu/SP, Brazil, the Provincial Gathering of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Chambéry under the age of 60 was held. The event, led by Ana Reis along with the Formation Team, was a meaningful time of sharing, listening, and renewing personal, communal, and spiritual bonds.

The gathering began with a warm welcome from Sister Luisa Rodrigues and an opening reflection by Sister Maria da Consolação R. Coelho, the Provincial Superior. She invited all participants to embrace this moment with joy, simplicity, and sincere charity, inspired by the spirituality of Father Jean-Pierre Médaille and under the intercession of Mother Maria Teodora Voiron, whose centenary of death was also commemorated.

With the theme Safe Communication and Bonding in Religious Life, Ana Reis guided a formative journey based on Attachment and Bonding Theory. Through a sensitive and experiential approach, she addressed topics such as trauma, psychological defenses, healthy communication, integrated spirituality, affectivity, and mental health.

One of the most impactful experiences was the "paper bag" activity, symbolizing the inner defenses that prevent us from seeing clearly and living freely. Another significant moment was the presentation of a small bottle of “mommy/baby” fragrance, representing the call to be a healing and welcoming presence for one another and in mission.

As part of the reflection on communication, Ana highlighted the power of language in shaping more humane, peaceful, and collaborative environments. Participants engaged in group dynamics, meaningful discussions, and moments of embodied spirituality throughout the event.

The gathering also included symbolic liturgies and the sharing of insights from study groups based on the book Courageous Conversations. These groups presented their learnings and reflections with both creativity and depth.

In closing, the Provincial Superior encouraged everyone to continue the formative journey and to take shared responsibility for future gatherings. The desire remains strong to keep nurturing spaces of listening, belonging, and commitment to life and mission—always inspired by love that transforms.

Secretariat Team of the Gathering

Ir. Isabel. Providencia

EU morei em Balsas conheci As. Irmãs de Mangabeiras e sempre admirei irei o carisma de Comunhão.