Chennai, June 1, 2018: The National Conference of Religious in India (CRI) was held on the theme 'Current Scenario, Move to the Margins' in Chennai at SRM University campus from May 27th to 30th, 2018 in which nearly 600 Major Superiors of religious men and women participated. The Bethany Congregation was represented by Sr Rose Celine, the Superior General, 5 out of 7 Provincial Superiors – Sr Jyoti, Sr Shaila, Sr Cicilia Mendonca, Sr Assumpta, Sr Santhosh Maria, and Sr Lilitta the Secretary of Women’s section (CRWI). The presence of the Internuncio Archbishop Giambattista Diquattro from Delhi for four days added to the joy. He readily availed himself for personal meetings with him to discuss on any matters.
The days were enriched with talks from eminent personalities on Indian current social situations, challenges faced by the religious in India, issues of dalits, social media, and special information from Caritas India, St John's Medical College, and CMC Vellur by the Directors of the respective institutions. There was a presentation on CBCI document on women and a soul stirring testimony on Rescue and Rehabilitation of the victims of human trafficking. The daily Eucharist was celebrated by the Bishop of Berhampur Sarat Chandra Nayak, Bishop Theodore Mascarenhas, CBCI Secretary General, Bishop Neethinathan of Chengalpet, and Archbishop George Antonysamy of Mandras-Mylapore.
During the election held, the CRI elected their new office bearers. Our Superior General Sr Rose Celine is elected as the President of Women’s section (CRWI) and Vice President of National CRI. The SRM University which hosted our conference was graciously thanked by the office bearers. The beautiful gathering was concluded with a message to go to the peripheries to meet the Lord. It was a wonderful experience to be together reflecting and listening to one another. Thus renewed in Spirit we move out to build better communities.
Sr Santhosh Maria BS
Provincial Superior
Southern Province