The Ursuline Franciscan Congregation held its ‘All Superiors Meeting’, a significant gathering that serves as a cornerstone for spiritual and administrative alignment within the Congregation. This year, the meeting took place from 27th to 31st December 2025 at the Generalate Somarpann in Derlakatte. It provided a precious opportunity for superiors from across various missions to meet, share their experiences, and find renewed strength in their collective sisterhood.
The Ursuline Franciscan Congregation held its ‘All Superiors Meeting’, a significant gathering that serves as a cornerstone for spiritual and administrative alignment within the Congregation. This year, the meeting took place from 27th to 31st December 2025 at the Generalate Somarpann in Derlakatte. It provided a precious opportunity for superiors from across various missions to meet, share their experiences, and find renewed strength in their collective sisterhood.
The programme commenced with an introduction by Sr Rita Vas, Assistant Superior General, who outlined the schedule and objectives for the days ahead. This was followed by a warm welcome from Sr Juliana Pinto, Councillor General, who invited everyone into a space of open dialogue and mutual support.
The gathering was formally inaugurated with prayer, lighting the lamp and a soul-searching address by Rev. Sr Milly Fernandes, Superior General. In her message, she emphasised the dual responsibility of animation and administration, urging the Sisters to lead their communities in a manner that is always in confirmation with the heart of Christ.
The core of the spiritual sessions was led by Rev. Fr Errol Fernandes SJ, who was introduced to the gathering by Sr Lydia Serrao, Councillor General. Fr Errol’s profound insights touched upon the essential facets of religious life as he delved deeply into the practice of prayer, the transformation of personal and communal attitudes, and the spiritual strength required to overcome fear. His reflections on "The Call" and "The Mission" reminded the participants that their authority is not a worldly power but a divine mandate to serve. Central to his teaching was the concept of living the "sacred now," which calls for being fully present in every moment, free from the distractions of past regrets or future anxieties.
A significant portion of the discourse focused on the attitudes that either build or break the fabric of a religious community. Sisters were encouraged to move away from the "I Know" syndrome and the "Martyr Complex," instead, adopting a spirit of "Care-frontation" and genuine optimism. The sessions introduced the TORCH roadmap—standing for Thanksgiving, Openness, Reflection, Contrition, and Hope—as a practical guide for daily discipleship.
Beyond the spiritual and administrative reflections, the meeting was a celebration of life and talent. On the evening of 29th December at 6.30 pm, a vibrant cultural evening was organised by the Generalate team; the programme was compered by Srs Philomena Noronha, Councillor General and Sr Wilma Rego. It was a joyous occasion where the creative spirit of the Congregation was on full display. During the programme, several Sisters were honoured for their noble works and dedicated service, acknowledging their silent contributions to the mission. A special highlight of the evening was the felicitation of Remona Evette Pereira, a versatile dancer, whose talent and dedication were recognised with great admiration.
In a pivotal moment for the Congregation’s administrative future, the Human Resource Policy Manual was officially released by Rev. Sr Milly Fernandes. This manual serves as a vital tool for ensuring that our administration remains professional, transparent, and aligned with modern standards, all while staying rooted in our religious values.
On 31st December, the meeting took a humanitarian turn as a blood donation drive was organised in association with Fr Muller Medical College and Hospital to mark the Jubilee Year 2025. This act of service saw around 60 Sisters/Formees generously donating blood, embodying the spirit of self-sacrifice and care for the wider community.
The meeting drew to a formal close with sessions of information and specific guidelines presented by the Superior General and Councillors, based on their respective portfolios. This was followed by a concluding message from Rev. Sr Milly Fernandes, Superior General, who provided final words of direction and encouragement to the gathered Superiors. The programme ended with a vote of thanks proposed by Sr Pramila D Cunha, Procurator General, who expressed gratitude to the organisers, resource persons, and participants for the success of the meet.
The superiors' Meet at Somarpann was not just a meeting of leaders, but a communion of hearts. It reaffirmed that to lead a religious community is to animate it with the love of Christ, ensuring that every administrative task is infused with the grace of the Spirit and a commitment to the mission of the Ursuline Franciscan Congregation.
