From October 30 to November 1, Sisters Yéssica, Veronique and Ana Alberca participated in the 6th National Congress of New Generations of the Conference of Religious of Brazil (CRB), held in Sorocaba, São Paulo.
With the theme “New Generations Walking Toward Jesus in Times of Transition” and the motto “Born of Water and the Spirit” (Jn 3:5), the Congress brought together more than 180 religious men and women from different regions of the country for a time of encounter, formation, spirituality, dialogue and discernment.
A journey that invites us to be born anew
Throughout the gathering, the image of the journey was present as an invitation to recognize the changes and challenges experienced by the new generations of Religious Life and to discern how to continue walking in fidelity to the Gospel, open to the action of the Spirit.
During the sessions led by Sister Zuleica, particular attention was given to the meaning of “Born of Water and the Spirit.” Baptism was presented as the source of identity and the Spirit as the One who leads to transformation: “It is not enough to change the path; we must allow ourselves to be transformed.” This transformation involves receiving new life in God, restoring relationships and discerning paths that lead to a life faithful to Jesus, the Kingdom and the mission.
There was also reflection on the differences between generations, their different contexts, languages, values and expectations. In the face of these differences, the importance of dialogue, listening and participation was emphasized, recognizing that different generations can broaden their horizons when they meet with openness and a shared search.
An experience of encounter and prayer
The Congress was also marked by moments of prayer and spirituality. The memory of the martyrs, hope and the presence of Christ accompanied the participants throughout their journey. The second day concluded with a Marian walk and the praying of the Rosary, recognizing Mary as a model of discipleship, listening and fidelity.
During the closing prayer, some expressions that had been explored in Sister Zuleica’s sessions resonated once again. Among them were: “All of us, without exception, were visited by God” and “no generation has all the answers on its own.”
Through the figures of Nicodemus, Mary and Elizabeth, the prayer invited participants to recognize that the journey of faith is built through listening and encounter. As expressed during the prayer: “Different generations, one same light.”
The image of the Spirit who blows where He wills recalled that Christian life remains open to the newness of God and that every generation is called to continue being born anew and allowing itself to be transformed.
Walking together toward mission
For Sisters Yéssica, Veronique and Ana Alberca, participation in this Congress was an opportunity to share with other consecrated persons, deepen their understanding of the challenges faced by new generations and renew the call to walk together, open to the action of the Spirit.
The gathering concluded on November 1 with the celebration of the Eucharist, after three days of formation, spirituality and sharing. The Congress left participants with an invitation to continue walking toward Jesus, recognizing in every journey an opportunity to be born anew and allow ourselves to be led by the Spirit.