Destination: Colombia.
Leaders from Viatorian provinces around the world convened in Bogotá this week, to explore the growing international identity of the Viatorian
Community, and look at ways to expand its reach.
With provincial superiors coming from Canada, Chile, Spain and the
United States, as well as the superior from the delegation of France, it’s something like the United Nations, with translators and working meetings aimed at building consensus.
The week opened with the Council of Latin America and the Caribbean
(CLAC) spending three days in session. Members included superiors from the foundations of Honduras, Haiti, Peru and Colombia, the provincial from
Chile, as well as Br. Carlos Ernesto Flórez, general councilor with the Viatorians’ General Council.
The Council of Latin America and the Caribbean formed 10 years ago to advance discipleship and missionary activities in those countries, and support a common novitiate program.
“We have decided to continue with the international novitiate for three more years,” said Fr. Alain Ambeault, CSV, superior general. “In keeping this project alive, we invite all of you to live in unity and embrace diversity.”
At the conclusion of the meeting, they elected Fr. Marcelo Lamas, CSV, superior of the Province of Chile, as new president of CLAC, and Fr. Edgar Suarez, CSV, superior of the foundation of Colombia, as vice-president.
A meeting of the General Extraordinary Council followed, with provincial superiors seated around the room, discussing issues with Superior General, Fr. Alain Ambeault, CSV, and his council, regarding the animation and administration of Viatorian Community.
Among their topics was the recent move of the General Direction from Rome back to Vourles, France, the 19th century birthplace of the Clerics of St. Viator.