International gathering of IJ sisters in KL

Mar 23, 2018

KUALA LUMPUR: Sisters of the Infant Jesus from 13 countries gathered at the Saujana Hotel, from February 26 to March 10, to have their Council of the Institute in preparation for their General Chapter, which will be held in 2019.

The Sisters were warmly welcomed on February 26 evening by their Malaysian Sisters with a Lion Dance and cultural performances by the students of the Montfort Centre, Shah Alam. This happy occasion was graced by the presence of our Archbishop Julian Leow. Since it was still within the Chinese New Year celebration period, all were served Chinese New Year dinner, with Yee Sang too. The sisters from overseas were thrilled to be part of this Chinese culture.

After the dinner, the participants were introduced to the history and diversity of this colourful country by Mr Richard Chia. This was followed by a short history of the arrival of the IJ Sisters in Malaya in 1852, a glimpse into the evolution of the Institute, the highs and lows experienced in times of war and peace.

The main aim of the Council of the Institute is to listen deeply to where the Spirit is calling the Institute at this time and to come to a consensus on a theme for the next General Chapter which will help all IJ Sisters to move forward together.

On March 4, the Sisters joined the community in the Church of the Divine Mercy for the Sunday liturgy. They were very inspired by the whole atmosphere in the Church, particularly the warm hospitality of Fr Gerard Theraviam and the parishioners.

Among the places of interest which the Sisters visited were the Istana Negara, the National Mosque, Central Market, Batu Caves and Pewter and Craft Centres. The Sisters in Cheras were delighted to have all these Sisters joining them for dinner on March 7, 2018.

On March 10, this Assembly ended with the Eucharistic Celebration with Fr Andrew Wong, CDD, with words of appreciation to all who had helped make this gathering a fruitful and Spirit-filled one!

This journey in Kuala Lumpur was completed with a visit to Asrama Cahaya, Bukit Nanas, where 42 of our Convent Women reside. This international gathering brought the Sisters closer to the realities of Malaysia with a greater sense of solidarity among all. A deep sense of gratitude to God and all, particularly those in Malaysia (IJ Sisters and friends), who had made this a memorable occasion for all participants.