From March 2 to 11, 2025, over 50 Sisters of the Daughters of Charity from Asian countries gathered in Pohsarang, Kediri, East Java, Indonesia, for the Meeting of Asian Formator Sisters. The theme of this year’s gathering, “Journeying, Together, Strengthening Formation in Asia,” beautifully encapsulated the spirit of connection and collaboration that defined the event.
The heart of this meeting was to nurture relationships and foster collaboration among the Formators, Provincial Directors, and Visitatrices throughout Asia. It was a precious opportunity for attendees to deepen their understanding of one another, create supportive bonds, and work together in the sacred mission of forming Daughters of Charity for both the present and future. The gathering served as a nurturing space for sharing knowledge and experiences that enriched formation across the region, promoting the Vincentian Spirit and embracing a Synodal approach of consultation and discernment.
The event began with a heartfelt Opening Mass led by the Father Directors of the Daughters of Charity from India, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia. The welcoming words of Sister Anna DC, the General Council for Asia, set a tone of warmth and belonging. The Eucharist was a meaningful and inspiring experience, filling everyone with renewed energy and purpose as they embarked on this journey together.
Throughout the meeting, sessions and discussions focused on the unique experiences of sister formators from different countries. The first session featured insightful presentations from Sister Anna DC, Sister Teresa Mueda DC, and the following day’s discussions centered on Formation plans and Vocation promotion from each province. Participants engaged in heartfelt conversations at various levels, fostering an atmosphere of openness and support. Several esteemed resource persons, including Sister Françoise PETIT, Superioress General, via Zoom; Father Fransiskus Armada Rianto, CM; Mrs. Anita LIE, and others, contributed valuable insights on enriching topics.
A memorable moment was a short outing to the city of Surabaya, where participants visited significant locations such as the Surabaya Cathedral, the CM Provincialate, the Church of Kelahiran Santa Perawan Maria Kepanjen, and Don Bosco Orphanage. The day concluded with a visit to the Provincialate House of the Daughters of Charity of Indonesia in Kediri, creating lasting memories and deepening connections among the sisters.
Through this gathering, the Sister Formators uplifted one another, learning from their diverse experiences and celebrating the unique characteristics that each province brings. The enthusiasm and joy radiated by each sister served as a wonderful source of inspiration. Together, they reflected on how to enhance spirituality and unity within their mission of service in the field of formation.
The meeting came to a close with a joyous celebration of the Eucharist and a heartfelt prayer of thanksgiving. May the insights and connections we’ve gained during this gathering empower us to live out our vocation, bringing love to our neighbors wherever we are, especially as bearers of faith and hope to young people. With full hearts and renewed determination, the sisters returned to their respective countries, ready to continue their ministries with open hearts, embracing lives of simplicity, humility, and love.