At the very beginning of the new year, the 14th Provincial Chapter of the German Province took place from 2 to 5 January in the Salvatorian monastery in Steinfeld/Eifel.
The purpose of a provincial chapter is for the members of the chapter to review the direction and work of the religious community and readjust it if necessary. The meeting was focused on preparing for the XX General Chapter of the worldwide community.
In Steinfeld, the 15 capitulars discussed this topic by looking at the aspects of identity, community, and mission. Since the autumn, there has been an intensive discussion process in the five German branches of the order about these elements of religious life. This process was continued and bundled at the provincial chapter.
The capitulars were accompanied by Sr Dr Franziska Mitterer, who has been advising the community for over a year. Through her preparation and moderation, Sr Franziska ensured that the work on the topic - "Apostles for today" - took place in a spiritual atmosphere and could lead to well-founded feedback to the Generalate in Rome: Where do we see our resources? What are the needs that concern us? What are the challenges for our life and work?
In addition to the General Chapter, to which Fr Heribert Kerschgens was elected as an additional delegate (alongside the provincial), the reports of the provincial, the provincial economist and the head of the Vocation and Renewal Commission also played a role.
Steinfeld Monastery, with its spiritual atmosphere, the beautiful guest house and the community living there, provided the ideal setting for the provincial chapter to hold its deliberations, for prayer and services and for meeting and celebrating together. The members of the chapter felt very much at home here.
