Yesterday, Tuesday, 12 September, the Redemptorists of the Conference of Europe began Phase III of the XXVI General Chapter in Tuchów (Poland). As the Superior General, Fr. Rogério Gomes reminded us in his first talk, it aims to implement the decisions taken in the Canonical Phase of the General Chapter.
In his opening remarks, Fr. General addressed the Assembly, encouraging everyone to be more available and fraternal. At the same time, he made us reflect on the doors that – as a Congregation – we have closed; the walls that we are called to break down and the fears that impede life and creativity in our units. At the same time, he reminded us of our missionary essence as congregants and the themes that were developed in the canonical phase of the General Chapter: identity, mission, formation, community life and leadership.
Afterwards, he invited us to prayer with a meditation centred on “hope” in four aspects: theological, anthropological, in the world and in the congregation. What is the meaning of being Redemptorists today if we do not live in the key of hope? Will we be able to communicate the charism received as an invitation of the Spirit? Will we be willing to take sometimes risky decisions inspired by evangelical choices? These were some of the questions he confronted us with before the time of silence.
In the afternoon, we began the third phase of the General Chapter, taking place in the Conference of Europe, formally opened by Father General. In addition to the presentations of the stipulated offices, the working groups for these days were also distributed. In the last session, the Conference Coordinator, Fr Johannes Römmelt, presented the Chapter process so far and the main challenges we face as Redemptorists in Europe: responding to secular culture, the lack of vocations, solidarity with other units, community life, shared mission, formation…
Finally, Fr Ihor Kolisnyk, vocal of the Province of Lviv, talked about the situation in Ukraine at this time and thanked all the units and the General Government for their solidarity with the Ukrainian people. The day ended with a warm round of applause as a sign of support and respect for all the Redemptorists who continue to work in the midst of this war for dignity and peace.
Francisco Javier Caballero, CSsR.
