“As God wills.”
– Sister Maria Aloysia, July 13, 1881
After completing the UISG Formation Course, three Sisters of Notre Dame took part in a course for formators in our Congregation. July 6th, 2020, was the beginning of this SND Formation Course for Sister Mary Pascalia from the Holy Spirit Delegation, Nairobi, Kenya, Sister Cristiane Maria from the Our Lady of Aparecida Province, Canoas, Brazil, and Gloria Marie from Regina Pacis Province, South Korea / Vietman. They wish to share the following article about their experience:
The two months SND formation program ended on 11 September 2020. It was coordinated by Sister Mary Kathleen, the general councilor in charge of formation, assisted by Sister Mary Karuna. Different sisters in Casa Madre gave classes for the three future formators. They gave practical hints on different topics.
Sister Mary Karuna offered input on the Spiritual and Human dimension in religious formation. She taught Ignatian spirituality, accompaniment, personality disorders, psycho-sexual maturity, and protection of children and vulnerable adults.
Sister Mary Kathleen deepened our understanding of the process of formation working with our congregational constitutions in a detailed way. She also taught the History of the Congregation and clarified matters of canon law that apply in the formation process.
Sister Maria Nonata focused on JPIC, giving practical hints on the care of mother earth, explaining the Congregational position on this issue, and sharing information on how we can work with different organizations.
Sister Marina explained the personal responsibility of each sister in the stewardship for God´s gifts to the Congregation and the Church as outlined in the congregational Philosophy of resources.
Sister Mary Ann taught us about the importance of inter-culturality in our SND living and how important it is in formation.
Sister Maria Elke shared information about secretarial matters that involve documentation and proper and timely communication.
The course broadened our understanding of the approach of the Church and the Congregation to the process of religious formation and opened our eyes to new perspectives. It was very practical for our future ministry in formation. We feel empowered, enriched and prepared to take up the challenging responsibility of assisting the women who desire to share our way of life in understanding the meaning of their vocation and deepening their relationship with Jesus Christ.
We extend our gratitude for this opportunity given to us by our provinces and delegation. We are also grateful for the sisterly support of the entire community in Casa Madre which has been part of our journey throughout our stay here.
by Dreamhost