Those chosen to lead the congregation for the next five years are: Sister Brendalee Boisvert, Congregation Leader, Sister Stella Chafe, Assistant Congregation Leader, Sister Donna Brady, Sister Florence Kennedy, and Sister Joanne O’Regan as Councillors. The newly elected team takes office on July 29, 2014, the Feast Day of the Congregation’s Patroness, Saint Martha.
Antigonish, NS – April 22-30, 2014 marked a significant event in the history of the Sisters of St. Martha of Antigonish, all members gathered at Bethany, their Motherhouse, for the Congregation’s Eighteenth General Chapter.
During her opening address, Sister Mary MacFarlane, Congregation Leader, noted the unique occasion in which all Marthas are assemble under the “One Roof.”
Every five years the Sisters of St. Martha of Antigonish come together to hold their General Chapter. The gathering consists of two parts: a Chapter of Affairs and a Chapter of Elections. A General Chapter, when in session, is the highest governing body of the congregation. At these meetings the Sisters discuss, plan, pray, celebrate and set a direction for the next five years in the life of the congregation. The Chapter of Elections is also a very sacred time in the life of the congregation as the women who will be entrusted with leading the congregation for the next five years are elected.
The theme of the General Chapter 2014 is Embraced in the Mystery of God…Welcoming the Reality of Our Life as Mission. Sister Marie Chin, RSM, the keynote speaker, gave an inspirational and energetic address that framed the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience as “elegant healthy choices.” These grace-filled days allowed the members to take a long loving look at their reality and lean into the future as women of Gospel hospitality.
Tags: Kennedy, Sisters of St. Martha of Antigonish
