ACWECA: New ACWECA Chapter in Ethiopia
Staff Reporter
ACWECA has opened a new chapter in Ethiopia called the Consecrated Women Association of Ethiopia (CWAE).
Before the launch of the association, women and men Religious of Ethiopia operated under the Conference of Major Religious Superiors (CMRS).
ACWECA, through support from Porticus, organized a training workshop for formators and superiors to orient them on what the association is all about.
The formators were enlightened on the importance of spiritual direction in the life of those discerning the will of God.
Fr. Joseph Pullicino of the Society of Jesus gave a presentation on spiritual direction.
The Sisters voiced the problem they face in promoting vocations; admitting candidates to the institutes, and forming the candidates. The emphasis was put on the need for training of the formators.
The issue of homelessness was also discussed as a reality that is affecting the lives of Consecrated persons and has resulted in many quitting Religious life. The Sisters were encouraged to embrace the spirit of living together in a community as a family.
Another presenter, Fr. Alex Wainaina of the Society of Jesus, said the Religious community is within the framework of the Church and the community comprises members as building blocks. The Sisters were reminded that the members are to identify themselves with other community members and live in and for the community.
“Community life gives meaning to apostolates and living the life of vowed life. However, building the community is not easy. It calls for a deliberate personal decision to participate in promoting the welfare of the community,” said Fr. Wainaina.
