BIRTHPLACE OF THE CONGREGATION
Today, July 19, representatives from Europe gave the final continental report. “Europe is a complex situation,” said Fr. José Agostinho Figueiredo Sousa, provincial superior of Portugal. “There are many societal challenges, but that is the reality in which we live and must take action as Dehonians.”
Europe is the birthplace of the Priests of the Sacred Heart and traditionally, its center. Home to the congregation’s first provinces, it is the springboard from which the Dehonian charism spread to the world. Now, Dehonians of Europe ask “Who are we now? How are we, as Dehonians, called to be present?”
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HOW TO BE
A POSITIVE VOICE
Europe has a strong history of spiritual, theological and intellectual formation. There are thriving volunteer programs that offer young people an opportunity not just for “missionary tourism” but instead “a real pathway for true formation and growth,” said Fr. Stefano Zamboni of the North Italian Province. The continent’s major superiors meet regularly; there are shared formation programs. Europe has an active Dehonian Theological Commission.
However, as other continents cited in their reports, internationality and interculturality are significant issues for SCJs in Europe. How can the congregation –– throughout the world –– live and minister together as confreres, not just as visitors and hosts?
And how can Dehonians be a positive voice in a world that itself struggles with multiculturalism?
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THE ELECTION PROCESS BEGINS
In the afternoon the chapter began the election process for the Superior General. The seal of the congregation, a symbol of the authority of the Superior General, was placed beside the ballot box and a Bible at the front of the hall. Chapter delegates sang Veni Creator Spiritusand Fr. Stefan Tertünte, moderator, gave an overview of the process. The afternoon would be devoted to reflection and prayer, individually or with others. Before concluding for the day delegates would return to the meeting hall to place three names, in order of preference, on a straw ballot. This is a discernment vote; results will be distributed to delegates in the evening.
The canonical election for the Superior General begins tomorrow, July 20.
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FULL REPORTS ON DEHON.IT
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VIDEO REPORTS
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