BY SISTER JEANNETTE FILTHAUT, SP
From January 8 – 13 I was privileged to facilitate the Provincial Chapter of the Presentation Sisters of Mary in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. The theme for the General Chapter to be held in Rome Aug. 12 – Sept. 12, 2017 provided us with excellent material for our dialogue process: Gathered by Jesus Christ, Fashioned by the Word of God, Let us move forward in Hope!
We began each morning with Eucharist at 7:15 a.m. followed by breakfast and an hour of contemplative/shared prayer in our small groups. Our working day usually ended around 5:10 with Vespers in the Chapel. The evening lent itself well to some fun prepared entertainment on the first evening and then card games of Kaiser or visiting on the following evenings. There was always interesting and delicious snacks provided, along with excellent meals.
The outcome of the provincial chapter provided the province with three excellent proposals to submit to the General Chapter and some wishes for the Provincial Council to follow-up on in the remainder of their leadership term. Like many other congregations, these sisters are also discerning what to do with their land and buildings. They are fortunate to have some younger members with energy to continue the mission endeavours in the province of Saskatchewan.
It was bitterly cold outside, but the community warmth and sharing inside made the week a most enjoyable and enriching experience. We thank everyone for their prayer support.
The Chapter week began with a reflective PowerPoint on the theme prepared by one of the Sisters. It ended on Friday with a delightful PowerPoint of photos with funny captions prepared by the Sister-photographer of the Chapter.
Marie Rivier
This mural of their foundress Marie Rivier is in the front hall of the building. It shows her work. The crutches reveal a remnant of her being cured as her mother brought her as a child before the pieta daily for about four years. It shows their educational work.
Pinning on the logo
Sister Lise Paquette, Provincial Superior is pinning the Chapter logo on me
Sister Jeannette and Council
Sister of Providence Jeannette Filthaut and the Provincial Council members in their Council room
Process is working
This is the Chapter room. Photo shows 3 of the 5 groups
Chapter room
The Chapter room as we begin the process on Sunday afternoon
