06 May 2023
“THEME “To be a joyful missionary disciple of Jesus””
14 Junior Sisters of the Provinces of Amravati and Pune, arrived at Chikaldara, Maharashtra, North India on 5th May along with the Formators Srs. Mukta Parkhe and Zeena D’Souza. It was a dream come true - the coming together of the two Provinces after 25 years.
Sr. Julie Serpes the Animator and the sisters of the community at Chikaldara welcomed us.
The program began with adoration followed by the Inaugural Mass officiated by Fr. Arockia Swamy. His meaningful homily made us aware of our call to be joyful missionary disciples of Jesus. Fr. Swamy in his session shared with us his insights on how to make a difference in the life of others which empowered us to be fruitful in our mission.
The next day Sr. Zeena D’Souza, Junior Mistress of the Province of Pune dealt with the topic ‘Life Skills/Soft Skills’, introducing us to form healthy habits for our life style. Later during the day we had visited the market and became aware of the struggles of the common people.
“Spirit of the Source’’
Our Resource Person Sr. Eugene D’Souza (Former Superior General) shared with us the zeal of our early sisters who sowed the seed of our Congregation in Indian soil. She further explained to us the richness of the book “Spirit of the Source” and encouraged us to read and reflect on the life of our early sisters. After reflecting and sharing with each other we were enriched and enthused in our missionary zeal to make the good God known and loved.
Reading and re-reading the history of the origin of our Congregation enabled us to improve the quality of our life.
We had visited the graveyard of our sisters at Chikalda and prayed fervently to Mother Veronica Pollien, and Fr. Thevenet (MSFS) who hold a special place in our hearts to make lively zealous missionaries like them.
A prayer service on “Consecrated Life” was conducted by Sr. Zeena reminding us of our call to live our vows with dedication and commitment. The Eucharist was celebrated by Fr. John Mathew who spoke about the essence of religious life and how he witnessed the missionary zeal that prevailed among our sisters. We cherished with gratitude our commitment to the Lord.
Introducing Vatican Council II and Perfectae Caritatis
Fr. Sebastian SJ introduced us to the topic ‘Introduction to Vatican Council II’ and ‘Perfectae Caritatis’. He briefed the Vatican Council II and enlightened us with some of the highlights of the document.
He also brought out the richness of the document ‘Perfectae Caritatis’ such as adaptation in Religious life, Renewal of religious life, constant return to the sources of Christian life and to the original spirit of the Charism of the Founders.
Latter, Sr. Mukta explained to us the importance of Evangelization which is necessary for our journey as missionary disciples after the heart of Jesus our Master.
Fr. Sebastian S.J. guided us through the spiritual exercises of St Ignatius of Loyola. During these of our days of intimacy with the Lord we became more aware of the importance of discernment in our day to-day life.
Essentials of Religious Life
Sr. Mukta enlightened us on the above topic. Our discussion and sharing gave us fresh insight into the living of our vows, prayer life and community life which renewed and strengthened us to live our commitment joyfully and meaningfully.
Fr. Santosh Salve MSFS conducted a session on Personal Transformation through the Word of God, creating in us self-awareness and enabling us deal with conflicting situations. It was indeed an inspiring and enriching session
Appreciation and Gratitude
We thank our Provincials Sr. Mary Pinto and Sr. Bromadine Palokaran, our formators Sr. Zeena and Sr. Mukta and all our community sisters for their contribution towards our growth.
A special thanks to Sr. Julie Serpes and the members of the Chikaldara community for their untiring and selfless service to make our stay comfortable and growth promoting.
Sr. Alestina Dapkey – Province of Amravati
Sr. Nisha Dehade – Province of Pune