SUMEDHA OUTREACH TO THAILAND – 2

The second Sumedha Outreach Programme in Thailand this year was at the “Sisters Centre” at Sam Phran, some two hours journey by road from Bangkok. 

This programme “Renewing Our Consecrated Life: Journeying Toward the Fullness of Life” was organised by the Conference of the Major Religious Superiors of Women of Thailand and Laos. 

Twenty nine women religious from twelve different congregations attended.

The programme was held between January 10 and February 10. It was facilitated by Jose Parappully, Director of Sumedha Centre.

The topics covered during this one-month on-going-formation programme included the following: Process Spirituality, Prayerfulness, Midlife Dynamics & the Spiritual Journey, Characteristics of a Mature Spirituality; Psychosexual Integration: Sexuality, Intimacy and Celibate Chastity, and Religious Life as a Journey to God Together. The programme concluded with a Spiritual Retreat on the theme: “Religious Life: Wilderness and Paradise.”

The method followed was of Input, Introspection, Interaction and Intercession. There were films, music, recreation and outings - and good food!

Participants found the entire programme immensely helpful. Fifteen of the 29 participants gave the programme 10 out of 10 on the Degree of Usefulness, and seven gave it 9 out of 10.

Some typical comments:

“The programme changed my life. Feel more confident. The content was very inspirational. Plan to apply in life and community. More energy to walk with community. Renewed my spirituality. Retreat very meaningful.”

 “It was an exciting journey. Deep experience of God. The liturgy was inspiring and helped develop taste for prayer. There was time to reflect and discover more of self. A new awareness of Spirituality. Liked sharing experiences by others, it enriched me. Retreat, mature spirituality most helpful.”

“Helped to overcome the disturbed, anxious, sad state I arrived in. Life has become joyful again…. The sessions touched my heart and peace began to come. Loved the community life here. Glad and grateful I came.”

“The process followed was very exciting. The input followed by reflection time very helpful. Feeling renewed.”

“Every topic was excellent…. Would like every religious in Thailand to have this experience, especially superiors.”

“This was a very powerful experience…”