5th fma provincial chapter kolkata


"After He had dismissed them, He went up on a mountainside by Himself to pray. Later that night, He was there alone." Matthew 14:23. Jesus always spent long hours in prayer in the solitude before every important event. Two days of Retreat guided by Rev. Fr. Joe Mannath SDB was a wise preamble to the Provincial Chapter. He shared his expertise on topics like, What 'Chapter' can and cannot do, Counseling and Spiritual Direction, Tips for religious Superiors, Celibate Chastity a different way of loving, How do I see Jesus? , The digital prayer moments on Psalms and Scripture readings created conducive atmosphere for reflection and contemplation.

5th October 2013 was a great day in the annals of the Province of Mary Help of Christians Kolkata, with the commencement of the 5th Provincial Chapter. In his homily, during the inaugural Eucharistic celebration, Most Rev. Thomas D'Souza , Archbishop of Kolkata spoke on 'How we could become true evangelizers, accomplishing God's works.' He then wished the participants of the Chapter God's blessings and a fruitful experience.

Forty six chapter members entered the chapter hall in procession carrying lighted candles and enthroned the Bible. It was followed by the reading g of the messages from the major superiors of the Congregation and several ecclesiastical authorities and Salesian Family representative.

The entire day was animated by Sr. Maria del Carmen. It began with the general assembly. Through the group work Sr. Maria del Carmen got the glimpse of our youth, understanding their hopes, dreams and anxiety. She viewed for them a clip of the World Youth day held at Rio de Janeiro. Meeting with the young people was concluded with the video "The Potter" which gave them the message of being generous in one's life.

They journeyed the rest of the days studying, reflecting and being challenged by the theme 'Being with the young today a home that evangelizes'. The president Sr. Maria Pettayil, officially declared the 5th Provincial Chapter of the Kolkata province opened. She then presented a detailed report on the province for the past five years. Sr. Teresa Karakkal, the Provincial bursar gave the financial report of 2008 – 2013 in a very systematic and accurate way.

The Morning and evening prayers were animated by the commissions on the various aspects of the chapter theme: A home that is built on Rock –Christ; with Mary a home that evangelizes; A community that allows itself to be evangelized; Evangelizing communities.

Eucharist was celebrated each day by Fr. Thomas Subas Gomes SDB, Fr. Albert Sahayaraj, Fr. Sajeev Painunkal SJ and Fr. Mourlin Fernando SJ. The members appreciated their inspiring homilies based on the day's theme.

On 8th October 2013, Fr. Patrick Walsh SJ enlightened the assembly on the discernment process. Sr. Elizabeth Valliyil was the elected delegate and Sr. Annie Thevarkunnel as substitute towards 23rd General Chapter.

The Chapter came to a close with a thanksgiving ceremony. In her final message, Sr. Maria Pettayil encouraged the members to dare to be different and to live the FMA identity with courage and commitment. She thanked each and everyone for their generous contribution of sharing valuable ideas, thought provoking reflections and practical suggestions to make the Chapter a success.

Sr. Stella Potteparambil FMA