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January 23, 2026

Dear Sisters,

The Fourth Provincial Chapter unfolded in an atmosphere of grace and deep spiritual resonance under the inspiring theme “Eph’phatha – Be Opened”. It was truly a blessed beginning, marked by prayer, silence, and attentive listening to the Spirit.

The celebration commenced with the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Fr. Michael Plattig. In his deeply reflective homily, he touched our hearts with the words of St. Francis, inviting us “to walk honorably in silence and inner contemplation, always carrying within us a space of attentiveness to God.” He reminded us that the Chapter is, above all, a celebration of God’s living presence among us.

At 11:00 a.m., the opening prayer service, conducted by the Provincial Leadership, drew us into the heart of the theme “Eph’phatha – Be Opened”. This prayer experience gently led us into a moment of profound silence and surrender, awakening in us a prayerful longing for the Lord to open our hearts to His grace and our ears to hear His voice.

The Chapter body then moved prayerfully from the Chapel to the Chapter Hall, led by the officially lighted candle carried by Sister M. Margarete Ulager, our General Superior. All followed with lighted lamps, placed reverently around the Chapter logo.

At 2:30 p.m., Sister M. Johncy warmly welcomed all the Capitulars and participants. Drawing inspiration from St. Francis and his companions, she reminded us of St. Francis and his brothers Chapter of Mats gathering in open space, trusting more in the Spirit than in structures, in one another more than in planning. With heartfelt gratitude, she thanked everyone for being present and journeying together.

Thereafter, Sr. M. Margarete officially declared the Fourth Provincial Chapter 2026 open. In her address, she invited us to remain deeply open to the Spirit of God, to one another, to the Church, and to the wider world; especially in this time of crisis and transformation. She emphasized a model of servant leadership that is open and prophetic, pastoral in its approach, collaborative in working with all, and responsible in administration, marked by genuine team spirit. As an international and intercultural Congregation, she encouraged us to allow the Cross that once spoke to St. Francis to speak anew to us on this historic occasion in the life of our Province.

Afternoon Brother Philip Pinto, CFC, presented an overview of the Chapter proceedings. He beautifully reminded us that a Chapter is a milestone in the loving relationship between God and the Congregation: a sacred time of deep listening to the Spirit at work in our world and within each one of us. Inspired by these reflections, we proceeded with renewed openness and hope.

Dear Sisters, as we have begun the Chapter, kindly continue your prayers for the further proceedings of the Chapter. May all of us be open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit.

Peace and all good!

Sr. M. StellaSr. M. Archana
Media Group

 

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