Meeting of Superiors and Economes from the Province of Italy – Rome, Via Ezio, October 19-20, 2016

Recently the superiors and the economes from the new province of the Vincentian Missionaries ministering in Italy (forty-two in number) met together for the first time.  The participants also included the members of the provincial council.  This gathering was developed in two sessions and prior to the meeting three reports were distributed to all the participants.

[1] The Visitor’s Report (Father Nicola Albanesi)

The Visitor gave a report on the present state of the new province and spoke about some of the work that is foreseen for the near future.  The primary objective of the province is to create local communities in which the members live in true communion with one another.  The methodology that might be utilized in the governance of the province consists of confronting a situation of crisis or emergency and at the same time engaging in a process of reconfiguration that will involve the sale of certain assets and a projection into the future.  It is not easy to respond to the question regarding what must be done.  The Visitor did, however, point out that we ought to strive to live a good Christian life and therefore, as the Pope and our new superior general have stated, everything should be done from the perspective of the gospel and the poor (Evangelii Gaudium).

There was a discussion about certain aspects of our life together, aspects that enable the confreres to live the Vincentian charism in a faithful and creative manner.

[2] The Econome’s Report (Father Roberto Lovera)

Father explained the various aspects of his ministry.  He explained his activity in light of obtaining a better understanding of the reality of the local communities.  He also informed the group that for the 2017 budget proposals a new unified form will be utilized.

[3] Pastoral initiatives

With regard to the celebration of the 400 anniversary of the birth of the Vincentian charism, a national gathering is being planned with the participation of some five hundred people who will share their experience in living the charism.  At the same time we will celebrat the Year of Refugees: assistance will be provided to individuals so that they can become documented and obtain work, language courses and other formation opportunities will be made available to “our new neighbors”

It was also decided to highlight the ministry of popular missions in our parishes as well as the organization of charitable groups, an aspect that is part of our tradition.

Translated: Charles T. Plock, CM