Caritas Christi Urget Nos The Love of Christ Impels Us L'amour de Christ Nous Presse
RECOLLECTION Guide
PRAYING WITH OUR SPIRITUAL LEADERS
RECOLLECTION 2024 |
The Synod on Synodality has provided an opportunity for the Church to reflect upon various themes, one of which is “Participation, governance, and authority.” In the context of this theme, one of the key questions posed to working groups is, “How can we renew the service of authority and the exercise of responsibility in a missionary synodal Church?” This profound inquiry sets the tone for a deeper exploration of the dynamic interplay between authority, governance, and participation within the Church.
In resonance with this theme, the recollection module for this year is entitled “Praying with our Spiritual Leaders.” Throughout the rich tapestry of our Congregation’s history, we have been blessed by spiritual leaders who have served as beacons of inspiration, persuasion, motivation, and have, in their own unique ways, “lifted us up.” This recollection material endeavors to honor the indelible mark left by significant figures who have played an important role in shaping our Congregation. It contains insightful excerpts from the lives of our Founder, our first Sisters, and General Superiors, individuals who have not only safeguarded our charism but have also guided us with their words and exemplary lives all throughout our synodal journey as Sisters of St. Paul of Chartres.
Through prayer, reflection, and faith sharing, we hope that this monthly recollection guide will help us remember and honor our spiritual leaders and foster a sense of gratitude for their valuable contributions. By revisiting their ideals and virtues, we aim to ensure that their memory lives on through our actions and daily lives, setting an enduring example for future generations to follow.
We express our deep gratitude to the Formation Team of the Philippine Province for their significant contribution in this recollection guide.
SPC GENERALATE
01 November 2023
November
THEME: The Expectant Hope of Mother Monique de St. Denys
GRACE TO BEG:
Lord Jesus, I beg for the grace of an expectant hope, so that like Mary I may never lose sight of your promise to be with us until the end of time.
Scripture Text: Luke 1: 26-38 – The story of the Annunciation
Mother Monique de St. Denys BERTRAND
A third term as Superior General of a Congregation is a rare occurrence in any Religious Order. Her election for the 3rd term reveals the Sisters’ trust and confidence in a leader who is highly motivated towards the mission of the Church and strongly gifted with dynamism and equilibrium, with discernment necessary for the government of an international congregation, sharing in the apostolic life of the Church during peaceful and turbulent times. Her profound respect and fidelity to the charism of the foundation spurs her to keep alive in all the Sisters, the spirit of Fr. Louis Chauvet in the modern age.
She had worked assiduously for the Book of Life of the Sisters of St. Paul of Chartres.
She wrote “Road Towards Easter,” a commentary on the Book of Life and was instrumental in putting together the notes of Fr. Louis David regarding the Origins of the Congregation.
POINTS FOR REFLECTION AND SHARING:
- Contemplate on the story of the Annunciation in Lk. 1:26-38. Enter Mary’s heart as she dialogues with the angel. Feel her joy, gratitude and expectant hope for God’s graciousness.
- Commenting on our Book of Life, Mother Monique wrote, “Even the most beautiful passages remain a dead letter unless living witnesses give them life.” (Road Towards Easter, p.11) How am I challenged by these words?
- End your prayer with thanksgiving for the gift of our Congregation.
PRACTICE:
During the whole month, do a Lectio Divina on the Book of Life.