A Glimpse Into Our Annual Summer Program and Retreat 2026
Written by Noela Tamang, SCN
From May 25 to June 9, we gathered for our annual summer program and retreat. Centered on the theme, “Religious Life and Its Challenges,” this was a grace-filled time of spiritual renewal, community building, learning and joy.
During the first week, we focused on our identity as religious women and our growth as human persons. Our resource persons, Sister Anoopa, MSMI, and Sister Vinaya, MSMI, gently challenged us to reflect on four essential questions: Who am I? Why am I here? What am I doing here? And what is my role as an SCN sister in India?
They explained how the theological virtues of faith, hope and charity are deeply connected to our vows, drawing inspiration from Mary’s complete surrender to God’s will. Reflecting on Luke 4:18-19, Jesus’ mission statement, we were encouraged to develop our own personal mission statements for ministry.
The sisters reminded us that while challenges are inevitable, we can face them with courage by relying on God’s strength rather than our own. They encouraged us to remain focused on living holy lives while nurturing both our own spiritual growth and that of the people we serve.
As part of our formation, Sister Arpita Mundamattam led valuable sessions on emotional maturity and human vulnerability. She helped us recognize the signs of various forms of addiction and offered practical ways to address them. A lively discussion on the advantages and disadvantages of social media highlighted the importance of using these platforms responsibly.
We also spent time assisting members of the local community with peeling corn, experiencing the unity and joy that come from working together. On June 1, our house was filled with music, laughter and celebration as we honored our sisterhood through dance, fellowship and a special afternoon tea featuring homemade momos.
On the evening of June 2, we entered into a period of silent retreat. Our retreat directors, Sister Haziel, MSMI, and Sister Maria, MSMI, traveled from Shillong to lead this sacred time. They reflected on several pillars of religious life, including personal prayer, regular reflection on the Word of God, the healing power of forgiveness and faithful living of our vows.
They also provided guidance on preparing for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, participating more fully in the Eucharist and deepening our relationship with Mary in daily life.
A particularly powerful moment of renewal was the healing prayer service and invocation of the Holy Spirit. The retreat directors encouraged us to establish a consistent rhythm of prayer, maintain spiritual discipline and spend quality time before the Blessed Sacrament. They reminded us to carry Christ into every word and action.
As we return to our respective communities, we do so with renewed zeal and a deeper commitment to our mission.
We were also grateful for the presence of Sister Latika, our provincial, who spent time with us and strengthened us through her compassionate listening. She encouraged us to live grace-filled and committed lives and to witness to the values of Jesus through our words and actions.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our provincial and board members for organizing this enriching program. We also offer special thanks to Sister Arpita for her constant presence, support and attentive care for our spiritual and practical needs throughout the program.
The summer program concluded with all 26 sisters renewing their vows, marking a renewed commitment to live our vocation with zeal, purpose and a re-ignited spirit.