Dream Together for a New Beginning
The Brothers of the Province of South Asia, gathered in Negombo, Sri Lanka, from Aug. 26 – 28 for their fourth provincial chapter under the theme ‘Dream together for a new beginning.’
Participants included vicar general Brother Joe McKee and Brother Philip Pinto of the Congregation of Christian Brothers, who was the facilitator.
The Chapter, held at the Good Shepherd Serene Pastures Spirituality Centre, was described as “one of deep fraternal joy and a spirit of openness and honesty”, and included time for personal and group reflection.
Br Philip encouraged members to “speak the truth in love to each other, and to be creative and daring in responses that would lead the Province forward.”
The Chapter began with an installation ceremony for the new Provincial, Brother Mervyn Pereira, during which the chapter participants blessed him in support of his new ministry.
Lay Marists and youth gathered with the Brothers on Aug. 27, encouraging the Brothers to go further in developing Marist life and ministries.
Discussions included forming a joint mission community for Brothers and lay Marists, being more systematic in organising youth ministry structures and revitalising the Brothers’ prayer life. This revitalisation could come about through the witness of a new community for Brothers and lay that would focus on the contemplative aspect of Marist life, and inviting other Marists from abroad to participate in the community.
The chapter concluded with the decision to focus on four topics for this three year term: Brothers and laity, community life, prayer and vocation.
Click here to read the full chapter message in English.
New Provincial Council of South Asia: Rajakumar Soosai Manikam, Mervyn Perera (Provincial), Chinthana Nonis, Sunil Liyanage, Noel Fonseka, Saul Placious
