By SGC - GC17 Social Communication Team

Suwon, Korea, 23 October 2016 -- Thirty two Caritas Sisters of Jesus coming from Japan, Korea, Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Philippines and Italy, represent some 1000 Sisters spread in 15 countries in four five continents (Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, South Sudan, Korea, Japan, Italy, Germany, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Australia, Vietnam, China and USA).

The 17th General Chapter with the theme: "Let's make our Charism bloom in the world to respond to the Church and to the signs of the times" has also a task to make final touch on the renewal of the Constitutions started in 2004 (GC12).

Opening 3 days retreat started on October 5 and was preached by the Korean SDB provincial Fr. Stefano Yang (Caritas spirituality and mission attitude). Official opening of the 17th GC was presided by the Suwon diocesan Bishop Lee Young Hoon. All Sister was happy to get the message of the Salesian Rector Major, Fr. Angel Fr. Artime. The Superior General Sr. Teresia Furuki (elected in 2015) also congratulated the Korean Sister to their 60th anniversary of foundation (October 19, 1956 in Naju).

Although the majority of Caritas Sister are born in Japan or Korea, the GC17 witness a strong commitment of inter-cultural community dynamics - including liturgy, songs and meal prayers in main four languages (Korean, Japanese, Spanish and Portoghese). The GC17 is held in two official languages - Korean and Japanese.

This chapter was prepared for past 12 months by all members in 15 countries with monthly themes for reflection and prayer as well for sharing at provincial level: 1 province in Japan, 3 provinces in Korea, Vice-provinces in Brazil, Peru and Bolivia. Already one year ago was held in Beppu, Japan an 'International Caritas Forum' about the future of the Congregation.

Caritas Sister of Jesus are glad to ask the prayers of all Salesian Family groups present in the EAO region for the fruitful conclusion of their (Special) 17th General Chapter.

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