The Region of India had its annual assembly at Sacred Hearts Seminary, Dangadighila, West Bengal, India. It was a meeting of three days beginning from the 6th June to 8th June, 2016. Fr. Johnathan Hurrell, the provincial superior of the United States province and Fr. Felipe Lazcano from the General Government were present for the meeting besides the brothers from the India Region.
The main subjects in the agenda for the assembly were: a) reviewing the so called “Ten Years Strategic Plan”, which includes goals and means related to the animation of the religious life of the Region as well as some projects of new ministries and constructions; b) the election of the Regional government, which is done every three years.
On the first day the assembly had a very comprehensive discussion on the four primary goals of the region for projects and infrastructure, which were decided in the extended assembly in October, 2015. There was a very serious discussion, reflection and discernment into these four goals in the assembly. However, the discussion ended up reflecting on the importance of consolidating community life, spirituality of the congregation, with special emphasis on the significance and need of the daily Eucharistic adoration, etc… as it was reminded of the report of the General Government after the canonical visit to India. So, the assembly spent time reflecting on the quality of life in the community and living out the spirituality of the Congregation.
On the second day the Superior Provincial announced that Fr. Sudhir Nayak was re-appointed as the regional superior. Then the assembly elected Fr. Subal Francis Nayak as regional vicar and Fr. Bibudha Nayak as councilor.
On the third day the assembly voted for and against few proposals for the Regional Government. It was also expressed that it was not yet time to start the process to become a Viceprovince and also better to maintain the method of appointment of the election of the Regional Superior by the Superior Provincial.
At this time the region has 19 brothers and 4 novices. Outside the region there are 7 Indian brothers working in various parts of the Congregation. Two other brothers are in special situation.
06/09/2016