Chennai – The superiors and others gathered at Don Guanella Major Seminary beginning with a prayer service led by Fr. Provincial. He welcomed everyone and initiated the conference with his open talk on the theme “Gospel and Guanellian Leadership.” He invited the superiors to be good shepherds and sweet fathers, to have the Heart of Jesus, to have honest and constructive criticism in order to grow and to follow Jesus Christ and the footsteps of our Founder. Afterwards, Fr. Kulandai Samy invited everyone to comprehend the “Different types of leaderships” and discussed relational problems in general within religious communities. Next, Fr. Visuwasam enlightened them with his talk about “Role of the Superiors in the Financial Administration” where he obligated everyone to be a steward of the community; while following the legal requirements of the Government and congregation.
Fr. Provincial guided the discussion on practical difficulties of administration and governance of the provincial chapter. From this discussion, numerous ideas came from the participants which will be further discussed and appropriately implemented. This meeting was marked by two significant events: the presence and spiritual accompaniment of most Rev. Dr. Antony Papusamy, the Archbishop of Madurai; and the unfortunate loss of our great leader Dr. A.P. J. Abdul Kalam, the former president of India. The Archbishop enjoined all to personify the holy servanthood of Jesus and model the holy life style of servant Pope Francis. In remembering Dr. A.P. J. Abdul Kalam, Fr. Provincial noted his unique leadership style. He never had any personal projects, but always worked for the growth of the nation and the world. He never made any religious vows, but he dedicated his life for others. Let us make our life as gospels to the world.
Servants of Charity 