(Andheri) – The two-day annual meeting of the Youth and Vocation Ministry brought together 28 Sisters for a time of reflection, formation and planning. It was held in Andheri on 27 and 28 June.
On the first day, the Sisters took part in an enlightening and interactive session led by Deacon Ivan on the theme of accompanying young people today. He emphasised the importance of listening to young people, understanding their reality, speaking their language and accompanying them on their journey of life and faith. Drawing on his rich experience in youth ministry, he shared inspiring stories of lives transformed and invited the Sisters to rediscover the deepest motivation and meaning of their ministry.
The second day opened with the commemoration of the 14th anniversary of the declaration of Venerable Mother Fernanda Riva, through a brief and meaningful presentation prepared by our younger Sisters.
Sr Audrey then began her session with an interaction between two young women, Sunny and Valentina, from the Sacred Heart parish, and the Sisters present. The young women shared their perspectives on religious life and expressed their expectations of those who work with young people. The activities made it clear how much we, Sisters and young people alike, need to learn from one another.
Sr Audrey, Provincial Superior, then animated the group with the biblical image of new wine in new wineskins, encouraging everyone to discern with courage new ways of serving young people while remaining deeply rooted in Jesus.
This was followed by an evaluation of the previous year’s action plans and, after discussion and fruitful spiritual conversation, the group moved on to drawing up the action plan, with new initiatives and activities for the year ahead.
The Sisters took part actively and returned to their respective communities inspired, renewed and strengthened in their service in youth and vocation ministry.
From the Province of St Francis Xavier, India Centre
