The 11th Chapter of the Province of Brazil and the Region of Paraguay began this Monday, January 18th, with Holy Mass presided over by the Superior General of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts, Fr. Alberto Toutin, ss.cc. The assembly, which is being held in Pindamonhangaba, in the interior of São Paulo, will define the brother who will become the new provincial of Brazil and the Region of Paraguay.

Members of the Province of Brazil and Region of Paraguay of the Sacred Hearts gathered for the first session of the XI Provincial Chapter.

At the first meeting, the current provincial, Fr. Sérgio Stein, ss.cc., welcomed everyone, highlighting the value of the General Government's presence, especially given the challenges of the present times and the real risk of border closures, as indeed happened after Father Alberto's arrival in Brazil.

The arrival of the Regional Superior of Paraguay, Angel Armoa, ss.cc, and a Paraguayan delegate, Father Armin Perez, ss.cc, is expected this Tuesday. Both faced immigration problems due to the pandemic and had not yet arrived in São Paulo.

In addition to the brothers who make up the current Council, Fr. Evaldo Xavier Gomes, OCarm., a renowned canonist and advisor to the Episcopal Conference, is also present, advising and guiding the spiritual retreat.

The Chapter is scheduled to continue until next Saturday, the 23rd. Let us remain in prayer so that God, through the Holy Spirit, may inspire our brothers and sisters during this important moment for the presence of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts in Brazil and Paraguay, for the religious, the laity, and the entire Church.