The second day of the Triennial Evaluation began with an experiential morning prayer set in Indian style with the traditional lamp lit representing the presence of the Risen Jesus in our midst. The Indian bhajans  known for its immense power to lead one to contemplation and an inward journey led the participants to get in touch with the indwelling presence of God. The Holy Eucharist began with the depiction of St. Paul narrating his story of conversion and inviting the participants to be passionate in our commitment to Jesus and in our option for the poor and those at the periphery. We cannot but marvel at the transformation of St. Paul from being a fierce persecutor of Christ to an ardent apostle.

Fr. Mathew George SDB in his homily dwelt at length on the theme of the day, “Together with the young”.  He invited the participants to go through a paradigm shift from working for young people to working with the young. We have examples par excellence in the life of Jesus who became flesh and blood and lived among us and Don Bosco who made radical option in favour of the poor and the neglected. He stressed that if we are one with the young people of the periphery, we will see the reality from their perspective willing to let go of our comfort zone.

The gracious presence of our beloved Mother General a symbol of great tenderness and affection adds beauty and grace to our gathering and we look forward to listen to her words of wisdom. Right at the outset Mother appreciated  the effort of the PCI to put together the reflections of the seven provinces and remarked that it is a great sign of unity as FMA India.  In her conference titled, ‘Community in continual conversion capable of prophetic gestures’, she pointed out that the pastoral conversion is the foundation of an outgoing Church. Speaking about migration as a new challenge for FMA India she drew the attention of Indians spread all over the world who are in need of missionaries and lay volunteers to reach out to them in love and service. She reminded the participants about the need for renewed reciprocal trust, family spirit, circular style of animation and the communion of goods at the service of animation. It was wonderful to listen to her as she spoke with a heart of a mother inviting her daughters to have clear identity, while we enter into dialogue with people of other faiths and venture into new areas on behalf of the poor and the marginalized.

The participants then continued with the sharing of mid-chapter journey Choice III, that initiated dynamic interactions among the members. There were differences of opinion with regard to the mission: while a few highlighted the contribution we offer through formal education a few others emphasised  the need of the hour- to open up new vistas in favour of the poor and the marginalized responding to the call of Pope Francis.  Discussions revealed the great desire in everyone for renewal and growth.

The prophetic gestures in action in the provinces was another topic of interest for all. We marvel at the great contribution made by FMA India towards the youth of today through a number of institutions and variety of services. We were asked by Mother General to reflect on how these prophetic gestures change our life; how it is affecting our personal and community life and how it influence our mentality. This was followed by vivacious interactions on the quality and efficacy of our mission after which we tuned our ears to listen to Sr. Phyllis Neves who shared with us the news of the FMA Family. The animation carried out in the province of Shillong to promote vocations was presented as part of good night. We thank God for his providence and infinite love towards us.

Reported by  Sr. Margaret Mathai