“Let us do all that we can, so that all may know and love Him”
1st and 2nd March, 2018 went down into history of Handmaids in India, as the first Regional Encounter of ACI Family took place
in Mangalore. It was a special experience of celebrating our life with the extended family- a true gift of the Holy Spirit. The desire was to share the richness of our Charism, journey through the common roots, and experience the joy of stepping into the sacred terrain of their lives. There was such a joy in meeting together all 27 of them representing the three existing groups – Mumbai, Roha and Vyppin along with the sisters who journey with them. Sr.Margaret in her inaugural address appreciated the sanctity of this lay vocation that they share with us.
Three days of the encounter proved that when the hearts really love and communicate, no language and culture can become barriers in relating. There were moments of listening, reflecting, mutual learning, praying together, sharing, planning and enjoying and in all, there was a lot of laughter, love and care for one another. They not only listened through the life, mission, history of the Institute, but also participated actively in planning out the future
of ACI family in India. Out of 27 members, 26 of them made their commitment during the festive Eucharist of 2nd March- the feast of ACI family and many of them did it for the first time. The enthusiasm that continues after the encounter in living out this special vocation proves that, it indeed was the work of the Holy Spirit. I feel privileged to be part of this sacred encounter, as I recognize the sanctity of each person in the Aci family. Yes, each one of them costed all of His Blood. Thanks to Sr.Margaret, Mangalore community and to all the commission members who made this a meaningful encounter.
Sr.Bridget Viji aci.