Media release

Mangaluru, Mar 2: The XVI General Chapter of the Bethany Sisters that began on the February 3 came to a close with a special prayer on March 1, at Bethany Convent, Bendur.

Fifty four representatives from all over India, Europe and Africa had gathered at Bethany on February 2 for the month-long event. The representatives were from diverse age-groups, ministries and cultures. It was a visible expression of the unity of the Institute as one religious family.

It had been a month of consistent prayer, study, reflection, discussion and decision-making. It was a time of evaluating the life and ministries of the Congregation, a time for seeking direction for the next six years, and to lay new emphasis to respond in relevant ways to the demands of the emerging times, keeping in mind the original vision of the Founder, Servant of God Raymond FC Mascarenhas.

The main thrusts of the Chapter were 1) Spiritual revival focusing on prayer and the Word of God leading to transparency in all areas of life. 2) Strengthening Sisters` Formation Programme towards authentic God experience and radical living 3) Building joyful communities with emphasis on cultural integration and 4) Greater thrust to frontier ministries in the areas of Anti-human trafficking, migrants, youth and families.

Other topics that emerged during the month-long deliberation include -four priorities of education such as creating peace and harmony, empowering girl child, building harmonious relationship and striving for excellence in education and organ donation.

These past 29 days have been characterized by times of intense sharing, exchangeof ideas, voicing of concerns and search for possible solutions.

It is hoped that the newly elected Superior General Rev. Sr Rose Celine with the assistance of her four councilors Sr Lillis, Sr Shanti Priya, Sr Mariette and SrLillita will lead the Congregation in carrying forth the thrust that emerged from the Chapter.