(ANS - Rome) - A traditional event, yet new – we are talking about  the joint meeting of the General Councils of the Salesians (SDB) and the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA), who gathered yesterday afternoon, 21 January, at the SDB Generalate. Traditional, because the meeting is repeated every six months; yet new, since it was the first such meeting for the present Councils recently elected by their respective General Chapters.

by Gian Francesco Romano

As soon as they arrived at the Generalate, the Sisters were warmly welcomed by the Rector Major, Fr Ángel Fernández Artime, and his councillors.

Then, after greetings from the Rector Major and the Mother General of the FMA, Mother Yvonne Reungoat, there was time to allow the members of the two Councils to get to know each other. We should not forget, in fact, that since the last such meeting which took place last June, the General Council of the FMA has seven new members following the elections at the 23rd General Chapter of the Institute.

Sister Chiara Cazzuola, Vicar General, and Fr Natale Vitali, Councillor for America Southern Cone, outlined the work of the FMA and SDB General Chapters. The Councillors then discussed the objectives and themes to be explored in future joint meetings to be held over the next six years.

There were also references to current events in the Salesian Family. particularly the function and role of the SDB Secretariat for the Salesian Family, the celebration of the Bicentenary of the Birth of Don Bosco and participation in Expo Milano 2015.

Later, after Evening Prayer in common and the Good Night by Fr Á.F. Artime, the two Councils spent some time in relaxation and conviviality.

Published 22/01/2015