The official opening day was followed by a day of spiritual renewal which was conducted by Sr. Sheeja Kolacherril and Fr. Mathew Kozhuppakalam. In his presentation on identity, Fr. Mathew gave the participants essential input for their journey. He developed the topic by focusing on: personal identity, religious identity, identity and mission, identity and apostolate and the self-image of a Sister of the Holy Cross. Both Fr. Mathew’s and Sr. Sheeja’s presentations based on the topic ‘The Congregation on the threshold’ invited reflection and prayer.
The substantive work of the Congress began on 29 August. At the beginning of each session, one of the Provinces / Vicariates and House USA gave an input on the topic: Who are we as Sisters of the Holy Cross?
Strengthened by the recollection day, the participants of the Congress entered into the first working unit with great interest.
The short reports from the individual Provinces, Vicariates and House USA gave a realistic impression and invited discussion in table groups: ‘What can we learn from Provinces in Western and Eastern Europe, from India, from the Vicariates and from House USA?