Province of East Asia – Korea and Japan Sector Brothers’ Assembly
Participated by 16 brothers, the Province of East Asia-Korea and Japan Sector had their assembly from December 31, 2023 to January 2, 2024, at Marist Brothers’ Sector House, Seoul, Korea. Br. Jacobo Song, the Sector Coordinator, led the assembly with the presence of Br. Allan J. de Castro, the Provincial Superior.
The annual assembly is a meeting open to all Brothers in the Sector in order to bring them into closer contact and to arouse the interest of all by reflecting on some important questions and realities concerning the Sector in particular and the Province in general.
The first day was intended as an arrival day since the brothers came from different parts of Korea. After the evening prayer, Br. Jacobo formally opened the assembly by welcoming each participant and by giving the orientation. Br. Allan also delivered his opening remarks by emphasizing the relevance of the gathering in the life and mission of the Province.
On the morning of the second day, the Community Leaders, Ministry Heads, and Committee Chairs shared the achievements and challenges during the year. The afternoon sessions led the participants into a meaningful reflection on the life and mission in the sector in the midst of the present realities, namely the aging brothers, the lack of vocation, the scarcity of resources, the succession plans in the ministries, and many others. Fraternal celebration took place in the evening to begin the New Year 2024.
The last day was indeed significant since it was the 207th foundation anniversary of the institute, where the thanksgiving Holy Eucharist was celebrated. The brothers ended the assembly with enthusiasm to live the calls of the 6th Provincial Chapter, namely to be contemplative of the Scared, compassionate healers, bridge-builders, and carers of the Common Home.