On September 7, 2024, at the residence of the Pauline Sisters, in Recife/PE, the Regional Meeting of the Pauline Cooperators of the Northeast Region took place, with the theme: “Synodality in the Pauline Family: Unity in Diversity”. The meeting brought together 22 cooperators, representatives from several states: Alagoas, Bahia, Paraíba, Fortaleza and Recife and 02 sisters of the Pauline Family.
The program began at 8:00 a.m. with a warm welcome from the organizing team, followed by a moment of prayer led by Cooperator Ivanir, where a reflection was made on the importance of walking together, as a Church and as a Pauline Family, always focusing on the evangelizing mission. Then, the representatives of the states gave a brief presentation of the journey of their groups, sharing their experiences and the joy of being Pauline Cooperators. In their presentations, they also highlighted the importance of training, knowledge of the identity and charism of the Pauline Cooperator. Sister Edmá, provided guidance during the morning session, addressing the concept of synodality in light of the teachings of Pope Francis and how it applies to the mission of the Pauline Family. Key points were highlighted, such as: The meaning of synodality: walking together in communion, participation and mission; The diversity of charisms within the Pauline Family and the need for a unity that respects and values this plurality; The call to co-responsibility in the evangelizing mission, where each Cooperator has a fundamental role. In a moment of great emotion, several cooperators had the opportunity to give their testimonies about how synodality has been lived in their local experiences. These testimonies brought to light concrete examples of cooperation between the different branches of the Pauline Family and the importance of strengthening these bonds.
The afternoon session began with music and games, led by cooperator Wellington Jamaica and Sister Edmá. Afterwards, we listened to a speech by Blessed James Alberione, encouraging the cooperators to continue steadfastly on the path, believing in this symphonic Church of Jesus, Teacher, Shepherd, Way, Truth and Life.
Sister Soênia, advised the afternoon session, delving deeper into the theme of attentive and authentic listening. The theme provoked in us concern and reflection on our mission, making us realize how many steps we still need to take. She also brought reflections from Pope Francis, with this call to be a Church that listens, because there is no synodality without knowing how to listen, without getting closer to others. The example of Father Alberione was also strong. As a great listener, sensitive to the silences and cries of a society that asked to be heard, he thought of the laity (cooperators) to listen to the people, since they were in the midst of this mass (PEOPLE). Listening must be attentive and non-judgmental, looking at the needs of today. It is important to listen with the heart, with a welcoming, loving and authentic listening.
We concluded the day with a moment of prayer and adoration, led by the cooperators Selma and Lourdes, asking for the intercession of Saint Paul and Blessed James Alberione so that we can all persevere in the mission.
Marilene Ozana – ACP
Maceió/AL Group
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