The annual assembly of the Province of Brazil and the Region of Paraguay took place from 9-13 January at the Roses Retreat Centre, in Cachoeira do Campo (Brazil). There were important moments of dialogue and reflection on the vocation and mission of the Sacred Hearts, which were enlightened by some study texts that had been sent in advance to the local communities.
Among the themes covered were the following: the Synod 2021-2023, called by Pope Francis, which invites us to listen and walk together as Church; the ongoing integration of Brazil-Paraguay - the growing awareness that we are a province of two countries and that internationality is part of our charism; SSCC Identity and Mission - we are a congregation whose foundation is devotion to the Sacred Hearts and whose mission is to contemplate, live and announce the merciful love of God incarnated in Jesus. We also looked at finances, and there were also presentations of the communities and various reports, including the Provincial Report.
There were many moments of prayer: lauds, mass, adoration... as well as moments of recreation, thus strengthening our bond and sense of belonging to a religious family whose charism revolves around the Eucharist and fraternal life. It is important to highlight that at the opening of the assembly, the Provincial, Osvânio Humberto Mariano, proposed a prayer ritual that involved holding coloured candles (white, yellow, green, red and blue) that represented the continents. To the sound of music the candles passed among the brothers, showing how we can mutually illuminate each other in the path of following Christ. We are invited to illuminate the world together with the light of the Risen Christ.
Finally, at the end of the assembly, during the Mass, the brothers had the joy of accompanying Vanildo Lima in his renewal of his religious consecration. He is in the fourth stage of IF, preparing to make his final vows. It should be noted that Brother Vanildo, known for his artistic knowledge, had prepared an art exhibit, with photos, telling the history of the Province of Brazil, which is preparing to celebrate the centenary of its presence and mission in this land in 2025.
Link to the photo gallery: https://bit.ly/3khNTBd
01/16/2023