A group of 16 brothers of the German Province spent a number of days in prayer and reflection from 15-18 October. They were accompanied by a layman, a psychotherapist and theologian who helped them reflect on the scripture passage: "Among you, it must not be so" (Mk 10:43).
The participants began by reflecting on their own experiences of abuses of power, also in religious life. In no time at all in small groups accounts were given of personal experiences connected to the vow of obedience. The participants came to understand how many wounds there are, and how difficult the path of liberation and healing is.
The letter by Alberto Toutin sent to the congregation in early October was very useful. It is difficult to place ourselves in the perspective of the victims, but there is no other way except to enter into the victims' suffering, listen to them and take them seriously, empathising with their story of suffering and asking for forgiveness in a credible way. The days concluded in gratitude to the Spirit for what we were helped to see and discover and for showing us ways forward.
10/21/2019