II Assembly of the South Asia Independent Delegation, “Becoming neighbour and going forth to build communion”

On December 30, the II Assembly of the South Asia Independent Delegation concluded.

The Assembly was presided by Sr. Jolanta Kafka, the Superior General and Sr. Petronille Muthugidimbu General prefect of Formation. It was held online, the sisters in India Gathered at Antonia París Nilaya, Naguvanahalli, the sisters in Srilanka gathered at Claretian Seminary, Kattuwa and the President at Calandrelli, Rome. It was an intense day of listening, sharing and reflecting with all the possibilities and limitations of having online. We have tried to be in communion with all the members of the assembly through our conversations, group sharing and Eucharist celebration.

The theme was “Becoming neighbour and going forth to build communion”. It demands self-emptying, to be attentive to the needs of others through the eyes of compassion, to Emerge out from our comfortable isolation, an inclusive love and care.

The realities of the 7 communities have been presented, to evaluate and see the paths of the mission at this time. They have talked about the urgency of strengthening formation, vocation ministry, and revitalizing the sisterhood. It has been seen as important to continue building communion in the young delegation on the way.

Twenty-one sisters participated in the assembly, including three designated juniors. The government of the delegation has prepared the assembly with great dedication and contribution from all the communities. The working document has been the basis for making commitments in the light of the XVII General Chapter, the achievements of the first assembly and the challenges that the sisters welcome as calls from God.

Despite the distance, the Zoom platform and combining the schedules have helped the meeting to take place, the climate of listening, discernment and prayer. They miss the festive, informal moments of talking with each other directly, however they appreciate that the effort to carefully follow the connections was fruitful. We are very grateful for all your prayerful support.

(In the photos, moments of meeting and graphic steps of the conversations.)