From January 21 to 31, 2024, sisters and lay people were present at the Unification Chapter of the Four Provinces of Latin America in Curitiba-PR, Brazil. They showed great joy and willingness. They have continued on the path that has begun in a participatory dynamic and synodality since 2015. The so-called ‘Province of the Sisters of Divine Providence in Brazil’ includes communities in Brazil, Paraguay and Bolivia, as well as the Mission in Mozambique and São Tomé and Príncipe.
The theme of the chapter process was: "Let us walk together as women of the DAWN, faithful to the God of the Covenant!" Its inspiring motto: "Whatever we have attained, let us walk together in the same direction" (Phil 3:16)!
To this, a beautiful, inspiring picture.
The time in Curitiba was marked by communio, sharing, participation and building together, a "laboratory of synodality", as Father Itacir Brassiani, msf, who moderated the chapter, used to say. As a counselor, Sister Annette Havenne, ism, enriched the moments of mysticism and spirituality and was a valuable presence. As a "craftsman/~woman of care," - an expression emphasized by Sr. Annette -, each chapter member continued to forge relationships and helped with decisions/resolutions towards the course of the New Province. To this end, the horizon, concerns and priorities have been defined, and the chapter decisions and recommendations have also been approved.
The election of the provincial coordination - a team of seven sisters - took place on January 24. Sister Beatriz Zanatta was elected as the Provincial Coordinator. Sister Sandra Judite Roaris was elected as the Deputy Provincial Coordinator; the Sisters Sandra Maira Pires, Sueli Maria Tavares, Maria Eloní Coczenski, Elizabeth Alves da Silva and Lucila Teresinha Mai were elected as Provincial Councillors.
The days were full of joy, spirituality and also work. In addition to what is already mentioned, there was an analysis of the socio-political situation with Daniel Seidel, an analysis of the ecclesiastical situation and consecrated life with Father Joachim Andrade svd, at the beginning of the chapter. The delegates for the next General Chapter were elected. Several presentations of data/ information on the former provinces, such as reports and accountability reports, as well as legal/judicial assemblies were taking place.
It is with praise and gratitude that we can celebrate this historic moment in the congregation! May the Triune God continue to bless and help us so that we become able to be on the way together more and more!
(Communication team of the chapter)