EXTENDED COUNCIL - Canon Law and Congregational Life

27-09-2024

S. Kelly Connors, a canon lawyer and consultant for the Dicastery, highlighted key issues related to Canon Law. She emphasized that while Canon Law serves as universal law, it is not the sole guide for the way of life in congregations. Instead, the congregation's Constitution, which is rooted in both the Gospel and Canon Law, provides the primary direction. In cases of conflict between universal and particular law, particular law (the Constitution) takes precedence. Connors stressed the importance of knowing and living according to the Constitution, as it represents the chosen path to holiness for members of the congregation. Those unwilling to adhere to it are encouraged to leave.

Issues of Absence and Exclaustration

Kelly also addressed questions from the sisters concerning the topics of “absence” from the congregation and exclaustration. She pointed out that the role of the superior, as defined by Canon Law, is to foster a community of brothers and sisters in Christ. This responsibility requires the superior to engage with each sister with care and attention to ensure unity and mutual support within the congregation.

Discernment for Mission and Ministry

In the afternoon, S. Cristina and Dolores led a discussion on discernment for mission and ministry. They explained that this process often yields unexpected results, where the focus is not on winning or losing, but on finding new paths forward for the congregation's mission.

S. Shakila, Pakistan

Gertrudes Salette Beal

Girei das explicações e orientações.Entendi que a lei ajuda, mas o espírito está acima da lei.Pergunto se foi refletido sobre a possibilidade de ter leigas consagradas, vivendo o carisma e espiritualidade.

Ir. Geni Estegues Pereira

Gostei demais de saber sobre oque refletiram neste dia. Essas orientações sobre o Direto Canônico e as Constituições são fundamentais para vivermos nossa opção conforme a escolha que fizemos e as orientações da Congregação. Obrigada pela partilha.

Sr. Gloria, Tanmaya Province

Great indeed ! The topic and the interview. Truly appreciative of your efforts.

S. Naina CSJ from Pakistan

Dear sisters we are continuing praying for Extended Council meeting. May the loving Jesus guides your thoughts ideas visions and dreams for each sister present in the congregation.

S.TESSY

Interculturality and multiculturalty brings inclusiveness and unity. Ignatian Spirituality takes us into an inward journey. These are great thoughts indeed !

Terezinha Rizzon

Queridas Irmãs participantes do Conselho Amplo em comunhão com vocês suplicamos ao Espírito Santo que nos ilumine no processo de discernimento em nossa vida e missão.

Marian

I enjoyed reading about how Sr. Kelly describes Canon Law which I understood and the importance of our constitution. Also I loved the awareness of decernment in missionfinding new paths forward . for the congregation . Many thanks for all your work Marian