Fr. Blasius Tete sdb –
Tinsukia (Assam): The Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians (MSMHC Sacred Heart Province), Tinsukia began their 12th provincial chapter at Stephen Institute. Tinsukia is an industrial town situated around 480 kilometres northeast of Guwahati and 84 kilometres away from the border with the state of Arunachal Pradesh.
In the history of the MSMHC, Sacred Heart Province Tinsukia, July 15 was a great day as they commenced the provincial chapter XII. The chapter kicked off on a religious tone with the solemn Eucharistic celebrations presided over by His Lordship Rt. Rev. Albert Hemrom, Bishop of Dibrugarh Diocese where he encouraged and prayed for the capitulars.
The theme of the Chapter was “Creative Fidelity to the Founding Charisma and Spirit: Challenges and Responses”. A total of 90 sisters were present for the provincial chapter. The inaugural function kicked off with a symbolic lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries and a hymn to the Holy Spirit — ‘Veni Creator Spiritus’ was sung.
Sr Ancy Varghese MSMHC, Provincial of the Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians, Sacred Heart Province of Tinsukia, welcomed the dignitaries and the Chapter members. The dignitaries were then honored traditionally with a Phulomgamucha after which she declared the Twelveth Provincial Chapter opened.
The inaugural function of the 12th provincial chapter of the Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians marked an important milestone in the history of the province. The event brought together members of the province, distinguished guests, and special invitees on a common platform to reflect on the relevance of their ministry in the Church and in society.
A number of notable keynote addresses were delivered by the dignitaries of the day highlighting the importance of the provincial chapter and its role in advancing the Congregation’s mission.
“Dear sisters you are a religious institute dedicated to evangelisation. You have gathered together to discern together the future of your mission in the church and in the world,” said Bishop Albert Hemrom in his keynote address.
A significant highlight of the event was the handing over of the responsibility by the Mother Provincial to the moderator of the chapter to assume her duties officially. After the elaborate inaugural function, there was a sumptuous tea served for everyone.
The chapter will end on July 19th. The rest of the days will be spent studying, discussing, and reflecting on the theme: “Creative Fidelity to the Founding Charism and Spirit: Challenges and Responses.” The coming five days are indeed going to be days of deep reflections where the Capitulars will be putting their hearts and minds to bring out their best.