7 June 2017

Kapittel

Once again today we received many warm wishes. These show us that people from across the whole congregation are sharing in the experiences of the sisters in the Chapter. The day began with a short time of prayer and reflection, prepared by the Indonesian province. Each day, a number of verses from Psalm 103 form the basis of the opening and the song for today was based on this psalm.

Mr Van der Bergh, the financial adviser of the general council, informed the chapter members about the financial situation of the congregation. He sketched out a very positive rose coloured picture coupled also with some critical comments. After all the chapter members had approved this information, the general council was discharged from its period of office. Sr Mel Ryley spoke some words of thanks to the council members. She referred to the many hours which the council members had devoted to the journeys to the different parts of the congregation, to the preparations of international gatherings, to the many contacts which they have maintained, and to the support they have given to the sisters in the congregation. There was also a gift: a beautiful bowl which was decorated with golden flecks.

The morning gathering closed with a celebratory drink.

The afternoon was devoted to presentations by the different parts of the congregation. They contained striking images, of both the older and the younger parts of the congregation. All of the presentations have not yet been completed so on Thursday morning we continue with them.

We closed with a celebration of the Eucharist in which Tjeu van Knippenberg connected today’s Gospel about eternal life, which is present NOW, and encompasses both the past and the future.