Unlike other years, the Community did not organise the celebration of "Christmas Friends". This was to be in communion with the world that is suffering from the pandemic situation. With this intention, the Community had set aside some money, which was planned for this organisation, in order to share it with the poor in the parish of Saint-Gilles and a poor family living in Melle.
On the same date, Sr. Sylvia Chabala was taken to the emergency services at St. Peter’s Hospital for appropriate care. She underwent surgery. Everything went well. After her discharge from the hospital, she was taken to "Maria-ten-Doorn" Community in Eeklo to have a few days of rest there. The Generalate Community thanks all the Sisters who carried her in prayer during her illness. Thanks to Sr. Birgit Goslain for welcoming Sr. Sylvia to the Dutch speaking Province during her time of recuperation.
The New Year was also celebrated in simplicity and fraternity. An opening Mass for the year was celebrated in the Community.
Our sincere congratulations to the new team: Sr. Victoria Rehmat (PS), Sr. Genevieve Ram Lal, Sr. Samina Anwar, Sr. Clara Sharif, and Sr. Maria Shaukat (PC)!
The media are already talking about a new variant of the virus that has appeared in different countries. The Belgian government has taken some measures for security and to prevent the transmission of the virus. Among other things, there is curfew from 9 pm to 6 am. New cases of infection are still increasing, but there are fewer deaths. Apart from observing the barrier measures, the restrictions for the various celebrations have not yet been lifted. For Sunday Eucharist, only a maximum of 15 people can attend mass.
On 26/01/2021, the Community celebrated the Republic Day of India. It was on the first "Republic Day", 26/01/1950, that the "Constitutions of India" were enforced. India became a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic and ensures justice, freedom, equality and fraternity to all its citizens. Also known as Gantantra Diwas, this day is celebrated with festivities such as the famous Republic Parade of Delhi in Rajpath, which honours India’s military forces and displays its rich cultural heritage.
The day began with a beautiful liturgical celebration for this purpose. A simple meal was prepared according to Indian culture.
The day ended with an evening recreation during which the Community watched the parade that had taken place on this occasion in Delhi.
News from the Generalate
Celebration of First Profession in Kimpese