12th General Chapter | Feast of Saint Macrina
The Feast of St. Macrina began, for the Basilian Sisters at their 12th General Chapter in Rome, with Great Vespers celebrated by Fr. Luis, Rector of the College of St. Josaphat, on July 18,2025 . Different parts of Vespers were sung by the Sisters from different countries in different languages and melodies.
On the next day, Matins and Divine Liturgy were concelebrated with Bishop Dionisio Lachovicz, OSBM and Bishop Bryan Joseph Bayda, CSsR during which a variety of languages and hymns were again sung. In his homily about the ten virgins, Bishop Dionysius reminded us that everyone is waiting for the Bridegroom, Christ. Our concern is to have enough “oil” representing good works of mercy. The challenges and difficulties that come to us with time and age should be taken as an opportunity for a new beginning with Christ.
On this day, the Sisters were free to choose to go on a Pilgrimage to the Holy Doors, to visit the Generalate, or to make up their own program. In the evening, everyone gathered for Vespers, where we gave thanks for the work and sacrifices of M. Marcela Runcan, OSBM and the outgoing General Council over these past six years. This was followed by a festive dinner and entertainment at which the Sisters personally expressed their gratitude.