Day 6 - 27th June 2008
The bulk of today's work in the Society Assembly was dedicated to the world of Society finance. Jos Boerkamp led the Assembly through a meticulously prepared analysis of the Society's financial status, as well as a prediction into future finance for the entire Society.
As the 'Properties' section of Jos' presentation was covered, much attention focused on our Rome house and its future. In almost all of the various Regional Assemblies, certainly in the 'Home' regions, the question of the future of the Rome house has figured prominently in discussions. In this regard, the Assembly has made a request to the General Council to conduct a thorough study of the viability of the Rome Procure in the context of our future Society needs. It was pointed out that before any properties of the Society are to be sold, the permission of the General Council is required.
During his report, Jos illustrated clearly the proposals of how the Society's funds will be distributed in the future, especially in the new Regions and for the care of the members from Africa and Asia. Information regarding medical insurance is to be made known widely. The Assembly fully supports the ongoing process of financial planning in the Society and recognises it as good stewardship of our resources. Compliment was made by the Assembly to Jos, and all those involved in the Society finances of their good stewardship on all our behalfs.
The delegates gather for their daily Mass
Fr James Juma reads from the Book of the Kings
Fr Jan van Luijk concluding the Eucharist
The Rector, Bro John Smith laughs heartily with contentment with Ruth Purcell over the marvellous handling of the meals during the Assembly
The Dutch Regional, Fr Jan van Luijk and the Society Representative of the Philippines, Fr Liam Durrant exchanging comments on the food "It's good!"
The General Superior, Fr Tony
Following tea break, the Assembly returned to make concrete statements, proposals and recommendation in the areas of Formation. A few recommendations were put forward: for the protection of students in formation, a person outside the Society and the formation programme be identified to whom students can bring allegations of abuse; cultural aligned advisors to be made available for students; the evaluation of formators to be an important part of the ongoing process of evaluation; the procedure for dismissal should involve the relevant LFC and Regional Council.
The respective roles of General Council, new Regional Councils and Local Formation Councils will be clarified in writing.
Brendan brought the Assembly back to the proposal of Regionalisation in Asia, to some of the recommendations made during the Asian Cluster Meeting held in Kuching. He also drew attention to the recommendation that the Society widens recruitment in Asia. From the discussion that followed, the Assembly recommends that the General Council undertake a study of the viability of recruiting in Malaysia with firm proposals to be presented at the next Chapter.
A small committee consisting of Paul Mooney (Secretary), Des McGillicuddy and Brendan Mulhall will work on an initial draft Document of the Assembly for the General Council to prepare for the entire Membership.
The Assembly finished today with Tony leading a vote of sincere thanks to John Smith and Ruth Purcell for their wonderful hospitality and catering throughout the Assembly, to Paul Mooney for his hard work as Assembly Secretary which continues into next week, and finally to all Delegates who have represented their respective places so well.
The Society Assembly 2008 will tomorrow (Saturday) be drawn to a close with the celebration of Mass.
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