The morning of 6 November 2026 began with an atmosphere of joy, enthusiasm and anticipation as the sisters gathered at the auditorium in Tanmaya for the first day of the Pre-Chapter Assembly in preparation for the Provincial Chapter 2026. Sr. Sangeeta Ambakattu was the Coordinator for the day.
The day commenced at 8:30 a.m. with a meditative and soul-stirring prayer service conducted by Srs. Vibha and Saumya Edakkuduyil on the theme 'Openness to the Spirit'. Through reflective questions, the sisters were invited to examine one’s openness to listening to one another, embracing new ways of serving, letting go of the past and allowing God to challenge long-held attitudes. The prayer created a meaningful space for personal reflection and spiritual preparation.
Following the prayer, Provincial Superior Sr. Philo warmly welcomed the Superior General, Sr. Doloros, General Councillor Sr. Maria Christina, resource person Fr. Ambrose S.J., and all the sisters present.
In her inaugural address, she highlighted St. Joseph, the Patron of the Congregation, as a model of silent listening, discernment and prompt action. Reflecting on the Chapter theme, "Ignited by the Spirit, Empowered for Mission, to Witness Compassion," she reminded the Assembly that the Chapter is not merely about preparing documents or completing an agenda, but about discerning together the direction in which God is calling the Province. She encouraged the sisters to listen with openness, identify present priorities and participate actively in the process.
Fr. Ambrose S.J. then led the orientation session in two parts, focusing on the Chapter theme and the process of discernment. He described the Chapter as a moment of abundant grace, hope and renewal, strengthening the bonds of relationship within the Province. He emphasized that the Province is not merely an institution but a living community of persons with shared joys, sorrows, hopes and aspirations, called to pray, listen, reflect, dialogue and discern together.
Reflecting on the Chapter theme, he drew inspiration from the baptism of Jesus, when His identity as the beloved Son of God was affirmed. He invited the sisters to remain deeply rooted in their identity as consecrated religious, drawing strength from it to remain focused and committed to their mission. He also highlighted the essential dispositions required for authentic discernment, offering valuable insights for the forthcoming Chapter deliberations.
In the afternoon Sr. Philo, the Provincial Superior, SR. Nidhi, the copuncillor incharge for Communication and Sr. Archana Sneha the song composer launched the Chapter Theme song.
The afternoon session was dedicated to the presentation of reports by the various Commissions:
Each presentation reflected the dedication, hard work and missionary commitment of the sisters in their respective fields of service. Their valuable contributions and achievements were deeply appreciated and acknowledged with a well-deserved standing ovation.
Towards the end of the day, Sr. Sangeeta invited the sisters to share the highlights and insights gained from the day's proceedings, concluding with a note of gratitude.
The day came to a prayerful close with an hour of worship, Eucharistic Adoration and the praying of the Holy Rosary.
The first day of the Pre-Chapter Assembly was a meaningful beginning marked by prayer, reflection, sharing and appreciation. It renewed the sisters' commitment to remain open to the Spirit, strengthen their identity and discern together the path ahead, so as to be empowered for mission and become authentic witnesses of compassion.
Sr. Regi Komoroth
Tanmaya Province, India
| 06 NOV | Day 1: Ignited by the Spirit, Empowered for Mission |
