The Discernment process continues

The Capitulants gathered for the Eucharist at 9 am and met for further periods of prayer together throughout the day.

In quietness, and conversations with the Spirit, their hearts, one another, and together in the Chapter room, they moved towards the moment when they will decide who is to lead the Institute for the next six years.

In the course of the afternoon, Christine gave some further thoughts on what she perceived to be happening in the group and invited conversation with a view to promoting a further, deeper understanding of what the election process involves.

The time came in the afternoon for a second secret ballot in which each one wrote two names only. After this, a weighted list of names was drawn up.

Christine also gave an input on Conscious and Unconscious processes in General Chapters with particular reference to the Psychodynamics of the Election Process, providing more food for thought.

In her final words, she urged the Capitulants to ask for the grace of indifference and again stressed the importance of inner freedom. They must let the Spirit speak tomorrow and remember that the whole Family is praying for them.

The Blessed Sacrament was exposed from 6 – 7 pm.

After an exhausting day, an early night was recommended.

 

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 The notice board in the main foyer is a sign of unity and solidarity.

 

From the beginning of the Chapter, messages of support and communion in prayer poured in from Holy Family sisters around the world. Associates, lay and priests, Consecrated Seculars are also closely united with us as their messages testify.

So, too, are the Leadership teams of many Religious Congregations in Rome, especially our near neighbours across the road.

The Oblate General Superior and Council sent warm, fraternal greetings in these terms:

“God’s Spirit inspire the work of your General Chapter! We, the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, are gathered in plenary session and hold you in our thoughts and prayers for a most fruitful Chapter.  We hope that it will be characterised by openness to the surprises of the Spirit and that you will recognise God working in little ways, in unexpected manners and in voices often unheard.

 

We have great esteem and respect for our generous missionary commitment around the world. We are grateful for the historical and missionary relationship between our congregations. May we all be filled with the joy of the Gospel in our missionary lives.”

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