All roads led to Drumalis on the 13th July where the Religious Sisters of Charity Chapter retreat was to begin that evening. We were blessed with a team of nine very good retreat directors and Sr. Joyce Meyer PBVM gave input each morning which focused and challenged us to prepare for the Chapter.
Monday, 22nd July, a special day in the life of the Congregation – not only was it 161 years since the death of Venerable Mary Aikenhead, it was also the opening of the 31st General Chapter. The opening ritual was prayerful and moving. The delegates processed into the Chapter Room behind the flags of all the areas where we minister. Symbols were placed on the centrepiece. The ritual included readings, the blessing of each sister with water and the incensing of the sacred space that the Chapter Room is. The delegates reflected for a time and placed a short written reflection on the two aspects of the theme – new dawn and common call – on the centre piece.
Sr. Mary Christian formally opened the 31st General Chapter and welcomed each of the delegates. She spoke of the importance of a chapter in the life of the Congregation and how each delegate has a role to play. The work of the 31st Chapter has begun!
