After seven days of hard work, a Eucharistic celebration presided by Fr. Heiner Wilmer, superior general, concluded the international meeting of Dehonian secretaries.
In his homily Fr. Heiner recalled the words of the Lord Jesus who said that he was “meek and humble of heart” (Mt 11:29) and urged the secretaries to follow the example of Christ’s total dedication in their valuable service. Fr. Heiner recalled how important the role of the secretary is within the individual entities.
Dehonian secretaries became ever more conscious of their work during their training days.
Many issues were discussed at the meeting because many skills are needed for the delicate task of the secretary. Several sessions were devoted to the presentation of difficult case tudies and legal procedures.
Other topics included statistics and communication. The first, far from being only a matter of numbers and tables, is a living and dynamic reality essential for the life of the congregation. The interpretation of data collected over time allows the observer to read the past and better prepare for the future. Discussion of communications opened up a world of passion and wisdom in an awareness of the opportunities and constraints that new media present.
The secretaries received valuable guidance regarding the organization and management of current and historical archives and the preparation and conduct of a Provincial Council meeting. The archives collects the historical memory of our entities, hence it is essential that the secretaries take particular care in this task. Particularly appreciated was a visit to the Vatican Secret Archives. The secretaries of the group were able to take a few steps along the dozens of kilometers of shelves that hold documents of incomparable importance in the history of the Church and of humanity.
The meeting of the secretaries was held in an atmosphere of warm fraternity; this encouraged debate and the search for common paths to perform what is recognized as a “true ministry.”
The secretaries express their appreciation for the quality of the speakers, the impeccable organization and for the welcome, as always, which the community of Rome II offers its guests.
