From November 11-14, 2021, Sisters in Holy Spirit Province, Australia, gathered for their annual Provincial Assembly. The gathering was unique as, for the first time, it was held entirely over ZOOM, as restrictions on travel and gatherings imposed by the coronavirus pandemic are still in place. The Sisters joined online from all around Australia, and even as far as England where Sr Maureen Joseph Stempko is living. Each day featured approximately four hours of input, sharing, and discussion.
Sr Małgorzata Kozub, Provincial Leader, warmly welcomed the sisters before they engaged in an afternoon of spiritual input led by Fr Michael Hansen, SJ. Using music and the words of Pope Francis from Amoris Laetitia, Fr Michael engaged the sisters in a reflection on the importance of gratitude, and the reality, joys and challenges of living community life.
The second day of the assembly began with professional training in safeguarding standards, led by Cathy McClelland and Maria Trewin from the Safeguarding Office of the Diocese of Parramatta. Training in safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults is a requirement for priests and religious in Australia, and the sisters appreciated the comprehensive introduction to this important topic.
Following the training, several members of the Board of Holy Family Services, the Province’s sponsored ministry, shared their own testimonies and experiences of involvement. The Sisters expressed their appreciation for the Board members’ generous volunteering of their time and experience in order to ensure the Congregation’s mission continues to thrive. The CEO of Holy Family Services, Ms Alexandra Davis, then provided important updates about the major redevelopment of the aged care facility and the measures taken by staff during the three-month COVID-19 lockdown in New South Wales.
A significant element of the Assembly was the sharing of ministry experiences by several sisters around the Province. The sisters delivered a variety of engaging and creative presentations, from sharing photos of their ministries to prepared videos and short movies. Sr Małgorzata expressed gratitude to all sisters for their dedication to their ministries and to helping those they serve to feel loved and cared for.
The final day of the Assembly featured important information regarding provincial matters, and concluded with a prayer of commissioning and blessing. The Sisters also had the opportunity to thank Sr Małgorzata for her service and care through a surprise “treasure hunt” leading her to a beautiful bunch of flowers.
We are grateful to God that we were still able to come together and experience such rich sharing even though we couldn’t meet face-to-face. We thank God for the continued blessings He continues to give us in Australia, and for the many ways in which we are able to encounter and serve His people…and we look forward to being all together again in 2022!
By Sr Sophie Boffa
