From our sister, Gratienne Ndizeye
It is with a heart full of gratitude that we come to share with you a quick word about the post-capitular Chapter which took place from October 13 to 20, 2023, at Carrefour Providence in Montreal. The first surprise and novelty was the invitation to all the sisters who wanted and could participate. So, we were 25 sisters and Ms. Mélanie our coordinator.
The chapter was led by Sr. Micheline Trembley, a Holy Cross Sister. We were accompanied in prayer by all our sisters who first took part in the preparation through sharing their reflection on the 2023 Capitular Acts. The hall in the house of Cartierville had been arranged to welcome
the chapter participants. The Sisters formed small communities of disciples at round tables.
The second surprise was the joy of welcoming freshness from the General Council who accompanied us throughout the chapter through the presence of Małgorzata Popławska! Yes, the body that we form was well represented. As soon as she arrived, on the evening of October 13, we began, guided by the Holy Spirit through Micheline, Maité in person and Florence online via zoom. Everything was ready for us to embark on this adventure.
The next day, was a half-day of recollection based on Mt 15:21-28, which allowed us to immerse ourselves in silence to better welcome the Capitular Acts which invite us to embrace our vulnerability, a call to transformation in the company of the risen Lord.
Every morning, the gospel of the day was shared.
It was like a key to open the day, we listened to the One who comes to transform us. It was a grace to always find the connection with the theme of the day by listening to one another.
We also drew our strength from the daily Eucharist celebrated by Father Freddy Kyombo and once by Father Serge St-Arneault, both Missionaries of Africa. Throughout the chapter, sometimes in small groups of 6 to 7 disciples, sometimes in plenary, we shared on the following themes: Spirituality, Mission, Community, collaboration, Structures/formation. Our sharing was imbued with the particular reality of our context marked by the rich experiences of our older Sisters.
Yes, the transforming love of the risen Lord calls us all, whatever our age, to walk together without fear… The model of the butterfly used during the general chapter was transmitted to us.
We recognized that the road to inner transformation is long but possible.
There are multiple opportunities where everyone lives: in small/large communities, alone/with others, etc. Everything can become a path of transformation. To grow in a safe community space, we have recognized that certain values are essential, in particular, confidentiality/discretion which strengthens respect and trust between us; openness to others and inclusion to expand our tent.
In short, through each theme, we have taken out the best for the rest of our journey. We feel enriched by the experiences lived during this chapter. The mass and the recreational evening marked the end of this important event in our family. October 20 was the dispersion towards our respective communities.
All our thanks to our sisters from other entities who accompanied us in prayer. We also promise to carry you in our prayers, wishing you a good chapter to all of you in Africa and in Europe!
