(ANS - Vatican City) - The 82nd Assembly of USG, the Union of Superior Generals, took place at the Salesianum in Rome from 27 to 29 November. After three sessions of reflection and sharing, the meeting concluded in the Vatican with a lengthy and cordial encounter with Pope Francis.
The figure of the Holy Father had already been at the centre of discussion during the meetings of the various language groups of Superior Generals at the Salesianum. Much of the discussion evolved around three contributions – from Fr Hervé Janson of the Little Brothers of Jesus, Fra Mauro Jöhri, Capuchin, and Fr Hainz Kulüke of the Society of the Divine Word. They spoke about the challenges posed by the Pope’s Magisterium and the example given by Pope Francis to all who exercise leadership.
On Saturday morning there was a meeting with the Pope. It was not limited to a brief hearing, but - at the request of the Holy Father himself – lasted for a whole morning. The Pope responded in fraternal manner to questions from the superiors, often adding anecdotes drawn from his own pastoral experience.
The first questions concerned the identity and mission of consecrated life. A radical response is required of all Christians, the Pope said, but religious are called to follow the Lord in a special way.
On the situation of vocations Pope Francis pointed out that there are young churches that are giving new fruits. This of course requires us to rethink the inculturation of the charism. He then insisted a lot on formation that, in his view, is based on four pillars: spiritual, intellectual, community and apostolic. "The goal is to train religious who have a tender heart that is not bitter like vinegar. We are all sinners, but not corrupt. We can accept sinners, but not people who are corrupt."
On fraternity, the Pope said that it has a huge power of attraction. It implies the acceptance of differences and conflicts and it is necessary if we are to be fruitful. With regard to relations between religious and the diocese, the Pope added: "We bishops must understand that consecrated persons are not just there to help. They are gifts that enrich the diocese."
The last questions were related to the frontiers of the mission of consecrated persons. "They are to be sought on the basis of charism," replied the Pope. Areas of exclusion remain the most significant priorities, as well as the cultural and educational challenges in schools and universities, which we face in transmitting knowledge, behaviour and values, through which the faith is handed on.
The Pope also announced that 2015 will be a year dedicated to the Consecrated Life. He greeted the 120 Superiors General present and thanked them for their efforts.
Published 12/02/2013
