From August 28 to September 4, 2021, a meeting of the General Administration with the new provincial / regional administrations was held in Rome. Sisters from Belarus, Ukraine and the Province of Jesus the Good Shepherd were able to attend the meeting. The Philippines Province was represented by the Provincial Superior, Sr. Greta Marie Gallo, but unfortunately the rest of the Sisters were unable to travel from the Philippines. Due to the lockdown, the Australian administration was also unable to be present.
The Sisters spent the first day of the meeting in the Motherhouse at Machiavelli in Rome, exploring the theme of authority and obedience in the life of Mother Foundress. Sisters had time for personal reflection and meeting with Mother as well as sharing their experience with the group. For four days, the Sisters participated in a workshop led by Brother Emili Turu, a Marist Brother, deepening their knowledge of different communication styles, nonviolent communication, appreciative inquiry, dialogue, along with the topic of power and authority. During this program, the Sisters were able to work in groups and exchange experiences among the provinces, as well as work in their administration group, and meet with Sr. Angela Marie Mazzeo, Superior General and the Sisters of the General Council. The Sisters also participated in the Wednesday general audience and Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica. This day of being with the Holy Father and praying in the heart of the Church was a reminder of our mission in the Church and the charism of prayer and our devotion for the Church and the Pope.
We are grateful to God that despite the difficulties and uncertainties of the situation, the meeting was possible, and the Sisters could strengthen each other in their faith, acquire new skills and knowledge, but above all, gain a broader perspective of the ministry in their respective Provinces in the context of the entire Congregation and the calls of the Church.
