On May 1-2 the confreres serving in the United States gathered in Chelsea, MI for their Annual Assembly to assess the situation of the communities and ministries in light of the indications offered by the Second Provincial Chapter, in the spirit of continuous discernment guided by the principle of fidelity to the Charism as well as responding to the changing needs and appeals that are emerging from the local ecclesial and social context. Presided by Fr. Provincial and moderated by Fr. Dennis Weber, the Assembly offered an opportunity to all to share experiences and contributions that are helping to strengthen religious identity, fraternal communion, and readiness to make concrete decisions and sacrifices for the growth of the mission and a more effective witness to the Gospel and the spirit of the Founder. Gathering around the table of the Eucharist the confreres also prayed for the grace of new Vocations as well as for Fr. Ronald who will join them in a couple of weeks to help carry on the beautiful and challenging service of Charity. To him the prayers and wishes of us all!
A final report from the Assembly secretary, Fr. Satheesh C. Alphonse, SdC:
The Guanellians serving in the United States of America had their Annual Assembly for 2012 in Chelsea, Michigan at the St. Louis Center. All the confreres from Springfield, Philadelphia and Rhode Island came to Chelsea on April 30th. The Assembly was opened on May 1st by Fr. Luigi, Provincial Superior, with morning prayers and meditation on the topic ‘The New Evangelization’ in line with the Pastoral Letter of the Bishop of the Diocese of Lansing, Earl Boyea. Fr. Satheesh was unanimously elected Secretary for the Assembly. The first sessions started at 9am with the main topic of the day, “The Future of our mission in the US.” Fr. Dennis Weber, Provincial Councilor for USA, presided over the sessions. The future was discussed elaborately and some conclusions were drawn to be proposed to the General Chapter. Vocation promotion was also discussed and concluded with some proposals. All the confreres concelebrated mass at the Pious Union of St. Joseph with a large number of people present to commemorate the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker. The second day started with a holy hour conducted by Fr. Dennis and the topic of vocation promotion was continued. Fr. Luigi presented the proposals and motions from the Second Provincial Chapter to the confreres that were approved by the General Council. The presences of GLM here in the States and the Communication Office were also discussed. Fr. Luigi exhorted to publish some literature for the 100thyear of Fr. Guanella’s arrival to this country. We concluded the Assembly with the Holy Eucharist presided by Fr. Luigi encouraging all to look at the future with hope and trust in God.
Servants of Charity 