Journal
January 7, 2003
In a very general
way, here is an account of the day's significant events.
Happy Birthday to Chapter Member Fr. Emmerich Vogt,
OP.
10:30 AM
During the fourth and final talk by Fr. Edward Ruane, OP, the Chapter members reflected on
some key Scripture passages:
- Matthew’s Gospel: Jesus walking on the lake.
- Jesus is with the disciples, and asks, “Who do you say that I am?”
- At Mount Tabor: Jesus is transfigured.
- Seventy times seven--What does it mean to forgive another.
- The washing of the disciples' feet
- The prediction of Peter’s betrayal
- Jesus asks Peter, "Do you love me?" Three times.
- When you were young, you went where you wanted, when you are old, people will put a cord
around your waist and take you where you do not want.
2:30 PM
The afternoon brought the beginning of the oral reports. The Prior Provincial,
Socius, and Regent of Studies each shared their areas of interest with the Chapter
members. Tomorrow, the oral reports will continue.
Also, the Chapter Commissions were considered by the
members. Each commission will have four to seven members each, and they will only
examine the legislation appropriate to their area. After much review and
consideration, each commission places proposals before the full Chapter to add, change, or
delete legislation. The Chapter then discusses and votes on whether to accept, deny,
or modify each proposal the commission presents. This is basically a way to
streamline the amount of energy and work that goes into approving legislative
changes. The commissions do much of the initial footwork, and layout the pertinent
pros, cons, and relevant considerations. The full Chapter can then make further
inquiry and informed decisions without spending a lot of time on the footwork.
Also, the commissions can spend significant time conferring, debating, and
researching. This also saves the Chapter time, as the conclusions can be brought
forward quickly to spark discussion.
5:00 PM
Fr. Joseph Sergott presided and preached at the conventual Mass today. It is really
something to see so many Dominican priests gather for prayer and celebrate Mass together.
The seminarians return from their annual home visits tomorrow, and we will have
upwards of sixty Dominicans in the house. The Chapter is an exciting time in our
Province and in St. Albert's Priory. It is not
all work. After Mass each evening, there is a common recreation for thirty or so
minutes before dinner. During this time, one can find much joy and laughter
throughout this fraternal house. |
