Breakfast (in silence)

Eucharist in Language Groups(see Booklet 5)
Morning Study + Reflection + Prayer (see Booklet 5)

Coffee and refreshments available near the refectory

Lunch (with conversation)
Afternoon Study + Reflection + Prayer (see Booklet 5)

Supper (in silence)

DISCERNMENT CONTINUES…CHALLENGES THAT ARE ASKED OF US

“Seeing with the eyes of faith… Placing ourselves in the presence of God”.  This was the central theme for the first day of silence and discernment of the Capitulants.

On colored index cards, according to language group, They were asked to jot down the sentiments that arose in their heart by the question, “Lord, what is it that you are asking of us NOW?”  This was put to them at the offertory of the Eucharist and after Mass the Capitulants pinned their cards to panels in the central corridors.  The atmosphere of silence continues even into the dining hall.

The theme that is offered as the core concept for the second day is “internalizing the spirit of discernment of the Founder”.  It is a call to conversion that the Lord is directing to the Institute so it will know it is urgently called upon to face the challenges that the Church, society and the consecrated life ask of the Institute in the coming years.

During the evening hours there is exposition of the Blessed Sacrament in the Sanctuary.  Candles brought from the five continents by each of the Capitulants illuminate the space before the altar.  It is the time for contemplation.  “Here I am, Lord, to do your will.”

FACILITATORS AND LISTENING COMMITTEE

The Chapter approved the Preparatory Commission’s suggestion to have “Facilitators” and a “Listening and Writing Committee”. Both are present in the Chapter assemblies and they meet every day.

The role of the Committee is to carefully observe the proceedings of each day. This committee is composed of Brothers Donald Mouton (USA), Brother Esteban de Vega (Spain), and Brother Alain Houry (France).

The “Facilitators” are Father Dennis Thiessen, sds (USA) and Brothers Armin Luistro (Philippines) and Gustavo Ramirez (Mexico). Their task is to facilitate the discussions.

These human resources, which are new to this assembly, help the Capitulants remain faithful to the goals and objectives of the 44th General Chapter.

Robert SCHIELER - USA

The General Chapter is the highest expression of our fraternity as Brothers. It is a blessing and a privilege to share community with Brothers of diverse backgrounds from every continent. Though the schedule has been intense, the input from the presenters has been very good.

Sister Sujita, Superior General of the Religious Sisters of Notre Dame was particularly inspiring and challenging as she shared her thoughts about the realities of the consecrated life today. “We are so busy working for the Lord, we don’t always have enough time to be with the Lord.” We have that time now and I remain hopeful, that with the prayers of the Brothers and our partners throughout the world, the Holy Spirit will lead this Chapter in our decision making.

Shahzad GEORGE GILL - Pakistan

I have been deeply touched by the beginning of the first two phases of the Chapter, “Building Community and Looking at Reality” which went extremely well.  The work of the Central Commission is very much appreciated.  I am grateful to the Commission for facilitating these two phases in a more meaningful and spiritual way.

It was a praying experience for me as I reflected on the talks presented by our speakers.  They not only shared their personal experiences, but also deepened our spirituality and thirst for Mission. Their talks led us to sharing and discussing in our smaller groups which I found to be a very rich and encouraging experience for me.