On January 30, the General Pastoral Commission organised and promoted, at congregational level, a day of presentation of the document “Pastoral Care in Hospitaller Sisters”.
An extensive process, since the creation of the Commission in September 2019, culminated in the drafting of a document which responds to the request of the XXI General Chapter: “updating the Congregation’s pastoral model by adapting it to the different cultures and characteristics of the recipients” (XXI GC II B1P2).
Under the direction of Sr. Ester Berruete and the coordination of Donaciano Martínez, the commission proposed a path of discernment, encouraging a wide participation, especially of the provincial commissions and local pastoral teams.
The journey was serene and rich, slowed down during the hardest stage of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The presentation was held in person for the members of the provincial commissions of Portugal and Spain. They were connected virtually from the provinces of Italy, England, France, America, the vice-province of Vietnam and the delegation of the Philippines.
Sister Esther Berruete, Sister Matilde Porras from Madrid, and Sister Anabela Carneiro from Rome, welcomed the participants, underlining the gratitude for the elaboration of the document by the General Commission and the significant impetus that will come from it.
The document presented marks the end of the elaboration process. It will be proposed to the next General Chapter and, if necessary, approved as a renewed pastoral paradigm for the whole Congregation.
The day’s participants acknowledged the impetus and consolidation of pastoral service in the Hospitaller Model. They experienced it as “a breath of fresh air”, inspiring for the religious and spiritual care of the people being cared for.
Inspired by the evangelising work of Jesus of Nazareth and by the hand of Our Mother, we are confident that this document will mobilise an adapted, comprehensive and integrated pastoral service in our centres.
