The Provincial Chapter of Brazil-Paraguay concluded on Friday, May 29, with work centered on a chapter document structured around three main themes (SSCC parochial missionary project, ongoing formation, and youth and vocations). Prior work had also been done on the new statutes and on certain aspects of the provincial economy. At the closing ceremony, the Superior General, Alberto Toutin, encouraged those present to "trust in our brothers and, above all, joyfully give thanks that God entrusts his People and his work into our hands." For his part, the Provincial Superior, Edvaldo Carneiro, expressed his wish for the coming three years: "I want to walk together with all of you."
This was followed by the Eucharist, presided over by the Provincial and the newly appointed councillors. At the end of the celebration, Edvaldo asked for a blessing from the oldest and the youngest brothers present, namely Antonio Lemos and Carlos Aquino. The gathering concluded with a fraternal meal in the central courtyard of the SSCC Retreat House in Pindamonhangaba.
A word about the chapter document. "We carry this treasure in clay vessels" (2 Cor 4:7). The text draws on a hopeful image: the Congregation is the bearer of a treasure — the Gospel and the charism of the Sacred Hearts — that surpasses it, acknowledging its own fragility, yet convinced that its strength comes from God. On this foundation, the Chapter articulates three priority themes:
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SSCC Parochial Missionary Project. Moving from a maintenance-oriented pastoral approach to a more charismatic, communal, and evangelizing presence. Semi-annual gatherings with all the brothers are planned to develop and evaluate a Missionary Project, along with a Provincial Gathering with parish leaders. Goal: to have the project ready for the 2028 Assembly.
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Youth and Vocations. Developing a formation itinerary for young people and vocations, creating a Youth and Vocations Commission (PJV) in line with the priorities of the 40th General Chapter. Work will be done through support networks with young people, Consecrated Religious Life, the Secular Branch, and PASCOM, with a view to holding a Provincial Youth Gathering within two years.
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Provincial Itinerary of Ongoing Formation. Strengthening charismatic identity and vocational perseverance throughout the whole of religious life. A Provincial Plan for Ongoing Formation will be drawn up and presented at the January 2027 Assembly. It will include an annual retreat, group gatherings, personal accompaniment, and evaluation tools at three levels: personal, community, and provincial.
05/30/2026