Impressions of the Chapter

October 15, 2022

As the Chapter members continue the work of prayer and discernment for leadership, several sisters were asked to share their impressions of the Chapter thus far.

Sr. Shirle Maria da Silva (Canoas, Brazil) has served as an educator, a formator of young sisters, a local coordinator and on the Provincial Council. “For me, the General Chapter has been a Pentecost experience. Our internationality shows me that the mission of the sisters of Notre Dame goes beyond our Units and that we are impelled by the Holy Spirit to respond to the signs of the times, and therefore, renew the face of the earth, cultivating a culture of encounter and caring.” In January, Sr. Shirle will assume her position as the new Provincial Superior of the Canoas Province.

“As I read the unit reports in preparation for the General Chapter, I was amazed at the relevance of our charism that is expressed in creative ministries,” stated Sr. Mary Alice Kalapurackal (Patna, India). “During the chapter days as we have delved deep into the General Chapter theme, I was struck by the desire of the sisters to live our charism interculturally in the changing realities of the world/Church and thus to renew the face of the earth. I am privileged indeed to be part of this great story.” Sr. Mary Alice has been elected as the new Provincial Superior for the Patna province. Here educational background in Theology and English literature as well as her service as a principal in several schools have given her a broad world-view.

Sr. Manuela Maria Conrad (Coesfeld, Germany), a Social Worker, currently serves as the Coordinator of Hospice Care for several elder care facilities. An accomplished flute player, Sister has provided beautiful musical accompaniment at our daily liturgies. Sister shared, “General Chapter is for me a profound experience of our internationality. In common prayer and conversation, we face our reality and are open to the next steps.”