Farewell to Mission Partners

 Nine Mission partners  see picture (Nancy Fritsche Eagan, Nisansala Perera, Theresa Symons, Hubert Janssen, Cristina Duranti,  Catherine Condon, Rhonda Cumberland,  Melinda Stricklen and  Heidy Hockstatter) representing their respective  regions  were present for the Congregational Chapter. They participated actively and brought a precious contribution to the Chapter at all levels. During the Mission Partnership Conversation led by Sr Anne Josephine and Teresa Symons , different mission partners spoke about their experiences and mission and how it developed  in their respective provinces.                                

They also gave their reflections and experiences of being at the chapter. 

Then after twelve days of sharing and being together, we said goodbye to our mission partners during a beautiful celebration prepared by the provinces of Singapore Malaysia, Australia NZ and Aotearoa and Indonesia.

They also surprised us by showing a beautiful Video which expressed their appreciation of having been with us during these past few days.

MORE PICTURES FROM NANCY (FLICKR)

During the ritual, Teresa Symons addressed the Assembly:

“The last 12 days have been phenomenal for the 9 of us lay mission partners.  It is such a privilege and honour to be part of the discerning process for mission direction at this 30th Congregational Chapter.And yet we know it is  not only about us... it is actually about the voices of all the other lay mission partners from Europe RIMOA, the Americas and Asia Pacific - We have brought to the table of conversation and discernment.  We represent the many staff, volunteers, associates, benefactors and friends who are in mission with each one of you. We thank you for the space that you have given us to speak from our hearts and to share with you our insights, hopes and dreams for the future of this mission that has given much meaning to our lives. 

Sisters, we are your companions and friends who believe in the mission enough to lend our own hands, our own dreams, our very selves - to risk with you, so that together we journey on the road less travelled. As you continue the process of discernment, we pray that the Spirit continues to beckon you at this crossing place - do not look back; go forward so that the future may unfold. It will not be easy for us to leave you but leave you we must.  We would like to leave a part of us with you at the Chapter. Our hearts are open to continue relationships."

The celebration was followed by a party ( Academy awards) where different prizes were awarded to each one of them.