On April 8th, we experienced the second day of spirituality within the framework of the XV Provincial Chapter. The backdrop was the Word of God, especially the readings from the Eucharist and the Gospel of Luke 24:13–24 — the road to Emmaus.
In his homily, Fr. Jesús Díaz Sariego, OP, introduced the day’s themes. He emphasized that life is a project under construction, and that conflicts are an inherent part of this process. They cannot be avoided, but the quality of personal and community life depends on how they are handled. Resolving them intelligently and with compassion is key to growth.
He invited us to approach conflict objectively, avoiding overreactions, and to intervene with a calm and thoughtful attitude. As the Congregation is a public Institution, it is constantly under public scrutiny and is potentially vulnerable to crises. For this reason, he insisted that Superiors must invest in and take care of communication, seek counsel, and act with prudence—especially when third parties are involved. We live in a society that tends to excessively judicialize conflict.
In the afternoon, starting from Luke 24:25ff (“Foolish and slow of heart to believe…”), Fr. Jesús addressed the challenges of personal maturity. He spoke about today’s cultural context and the fragility of new generations, who must be protected in their rights, as the human person is increasingly vulnerable.
Regarding religious life, he pointed out that we walk between our strengths and weaknesses. Achieving balance requires self-knowledge, as well as the ability to harmonize the personal with commitment, and life with mission. Where do who I am and what I do come together?
Grace operates from a place of balance. Some key questions were left for reflection:
- Where are the points of balance within the Province?
- How should Superiors act when faced with decisions that might cause imbalance?
- How is God acting in the midst of community processes?
Capitular Sisters
