Launching of the new year of activities for the Quebec SNJM’s
Called to live a spirituality of welcome
The gathering of the SNJM’s of Quebec, which took place on October 1st, was the launching point for the new year of activities under the theme “Opening Doors onto Life”
Feedback on the Congregational General Chapter, held during the summer, served as the starting point for the day. After several delegates, who had been to the Chapter, shared their experiences, we were invited to share, in small groups, what resonated with us through listening to the experiences described by the delegates, listening to the webcasts during the Chapter session, reading the General Chapter Acts etc.
During the second phase of the meeting, the members of the Provincial Leadership Team, Sisters Denise Riel, Claudette Bastien and Beverley Wattling presented the projects for the Quebec Province, the action plan and some points concerning the General Chapter follow-up.
On this topic, the Provincial Leadership Team placed emphasis on the call to live a “spirituality of welcome in the midst of our lives and in our commitments”. It was in this spirit that those present continued their reflection with particular attention to calls to:
• welcome people and circumstances
• welcome immigrants and refugees
• welcome life in its fragility
Based on certain conclusions from the 2016 Chapter, including this one:
The 2011 Chapter Acts called us to deeper action in the face of the crisis of immigration and racism across the globe. We commit ourselves anew “to partner with immigrants, refugees, and indigenous people to resist racism, advocate for human rights and create welcoming communities.” (2016 Chapter Acts)
… We were reminded of this Scripture passage, still relevant today:
“I was a stranger and you made me welcome ... In truth I tell you, insofar as you did this to one of the least of these brothers or sisters of mine, you did it to me.” (Matthew 25:35, 40)
During this meeting, the Sisters, members of the GCQ (Quebec Co-responsibility Group) were invited by Sister Denise Riel, to briefly describe the responsibilities entrusted to them by the Provincial Leadership Team and to whom they are accountable.
Despite the many challenges to be met, it was with confidence and enthusiasm that all left to continue their daily lives, keeping in mind the hope-filled theme: “Opening Doors onto Life”.
And with the support of the foundress, there is no doubt that each one will be able to keep the flame alive throughout the year:
“Help us, Mother Marie-Rose, to be open to interculturality and to intergenerationality and to welcome diversity in others.”
See the photo album – Photo credits : Sisters Gisèle Lalande and Pat O’Neill
