From March 24 to 26, 2025, the Provincial Meeting of Colombia-Venezuela was held in Rionegro, Antioquia, Colombia, facilitated by Father Yovanny Bermúdez, SJ.
This event brought together sisters and partners-in-mission from Colombia and Venezuela in a space of fraternity, listening, dialogue, reflection, and discernment. Guided by the Spirit, the participants committed to envisioning paths that favor integration as a Northern Region, which includes the provinces of Mexico, Central America, Ecuador, and Colombia-Venezuela.
During the meeting, reflective discussions took place on the Province’s strengths and weaknesses in the current context. In an atmosphere of unity and collaboration, ideas were shared to develop innovative strategies to address the transition to the new region in a constructive and effective manner, inspired by the commandment to “love to the end” (John 15:13).
One of the key points was conversations on transformational leadership, exploring the new realities resulting from the New Governance Structure for the Province. This process enabled us to gather views from around the Province regarding the desired leadership style for the new Region within a framework of unity and shared commitment to the mission.
The Provincial Strategic Plan was further developed to project the Province’s mission for the next two years. With a view to the future but with actions in the present, the focus was on achieving milestones that contribute to the process of regional integration.
This meeting was also an opportunity to celebrate important jubilees: the 100th anniversary of the canonization of Saint John Eudes, the 200th anniversary of the founding of the Contemplative Sisters of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd, the 100th anniversary of the presence of the Good Shepherd in Venezuela, and the celebration of the silver jubilee of Contemplative Sister Elida Correa Ruiz. These moments of celebration and gathering as a province filled all present with a sense of gratitude and hope, as we continue to journey together in mission.
At the end of the meeting, the 19th Ordinary General Assembly of the Buen Pastor Foundation took place on March 27.
