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Sr. Rekha M. Chennattu, elected Superior general of the Religious of the Assumption for 6 years
On July 5, 2018, the Religious of the Assumption, gathered in general chapter in Lourdes, France, elected Sr. Rehka M .Chennattu superior general. Born on May 31, 1963, currently provincial of India, she has also been involved in the formation of young sisters for the past 10 years. Professor of Biblical Studies at the Pontifical Atheneum in Pune (India), she participated in the synod of bishops for the new evangelization in October 2012. A member of the Federation of the Conference of Asian bishops for theological questions, she has made presentations on many topics including religious life, women’s leadership, Biblical exegesis, theology and spirituality. Sr. Rehka has published many works both in India and abroad.
The Religious of the Assumption are an international Catholic religious congregation founded in 1839 by St. Marie-Eugénie de Jésus. With a missionary spirit from the outset, they are especially involved in education supported by a life of prayer, adoration, and an intense community life. Located on 4 continents (Africa, America, Asia, and Europe), they number about 1100 in 33 countries.
Sister Rekha, Our new General Superior
Father André Cabes, Rector of the Sanctuary of Lourdes, presided over the election of the Superior General, and announced it to the sisters gathered in the chapel: capitulars, diakonia and sisters from the nearby communities.
«Sister Rekha has been elected Superior General of the Congregation, we have witnessed this election, the sister Rekha is therefore your legitimate Superior General, who receives all the Grace to fulfill her mission, in the name of the Father, of the Son and the Holy Spirit. AMEN.»
After this solemn proclamation, our new Superior General advanced towards the altar, and on her knees, was blessed with this prayer:
«God of love and goodness, only you do wonders, pour out the Spirit of Grace and salvation on your servant, Sister Rekha and on the Congregation entrusted to her, and so that she can please you, pour out your blessing on her as the dew falling from the heavens. Through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you in the communion of the Holy Spirit for ever and ever. AMEN.»
After the blessing, Father André Cabes gave her the seal of the congregation which she placed on the altar.
The sisters then all went to make the moving and beautiful gesture of obedience to her, accompanied by songs of praise and thanksgiving.