MSC BURSARS’ MEETING, ROME
Report, Rene Balboa, Province Manager.
Photos from Humberto Henriques MSC, General House.
Six months ago, the Fr General, Abzalon Alvarado Tovar, sent us a letter about the proposed meeting of the Provincial Bursars/Treasurers. This is the first time for it to be held. While the travel to Rome seemed to be very long and there would be too many days to be away when many of us have other tasks, a congregation of 18 of the 20 MSC provinces and 3 unions were present. The oldest was 89 years old and the youngest was 34. Only two provinces of North Germany, South Germany-Austria were unable to share their experience with us.
The theme “something is being born, can’t you see it?” Is 43:19 and as a EEITworking theme “THE ECONOMY AT THE SERVICE OF THE MISSION”. The meeting was a way of knowing and loving the Congregation more and of establishing personal links among more than thirty MSCs. The whole general administration accompanied us. This allowed us from then on to put a name, a face and heart to the brothers of all the provinces and unions of the congregation.
A climate of optimism accompanied us, knowing that the strength of the congregation is on Spirituality and Mission and that the strength will continue to live more or less in more than 50 countries.
The presence of 7 Lay people (three women and four men) was highlighted. Presentations on Vow of Poverty, Transparency, Solidarity and Self-Sufficiency among others, were made by the different speakers from other MSC provinces and other religious organisations.
Presentations were made by each province, union and general administration on organisation, locations of provinces & communities and financial matters. Learning the status and difficulties of the provinces, the meeting concluded with the aim to foster close communication, update the policies and guidelines at all levels: general administration, regional, provincial and communities.
Considering the enthusiasm and motivation of the attendees, a follow-up of bursars’ meeting at regional level like APIA was planned. The meeting concluded on the 10th of December 2019.
The congregation thanked the CJ Sisters for their hospitality in providing the attendees with the food and venue at their general house in Via Nomentana, Rome, Italy.
