Day 20-21. Days of Recharge

The life-giving experiences of Tuesday and Wednesday gave the capitulants an opportunity to “recharge their batteries”.

Tuesday, which was undoubtedly the most memorable day of the Chapter, started with a solemn morning and ended with a joyful feast. In the morning, the Chapter elected the Society’s new Superior General, Claire Castaing RSCJ. Everyone reacted to the result with overwhelming applause. After the traditional ceremony of lighting Sophie’s candle, the capitulants, the other RSCJs present, and the staff greeted Sister Claire with hugs and best wishes. The morning ended with the celebration of the Eucharist, presided over by Fr Abzalón Alvarado, the Superior General of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart.

In the afternoon, there was time for relaxation, conversations, pleasant walks in the area, and rehearsals for the evening feast. The eight new provinces were asked to present music, songs or dances during the party, which started with a barbecue and was accompanied by much laughter and multicultural performances that lasted well after dark.

On Wednesday, the capitulants had a free morning. Some of them went to Lake Albano and others visited Frascati and the Abbey of Santa Maria in Grottaferrata. In the afternoon, they continued the process towards the new General Council. The aim of this stage is to help the new Superior General form her team. The Chapter is counting on your prayerful accompaniment.