European Conference on Secularity

The SCJs' European Conference on Secularity opened October 18 in Clairefontaine, Belgium. The theme of secularity took root at the 2009 General Chapter where members of the European entities noted the effect of secularity on the church and a desire to better understand its impact, especially as it affects vocations, ministry, and the members of the Priests of the Sacred Heart themselves. The conference is designed to follow the See, Judge, Act method. To “see” the situation of secularity in Europe, Tuesday’s speakers presented a sociological analysis of the different milieus or spheres of European society along with their needs and desires. On Wednesday, the conference will focus on the lived experience of five Dehonians and their impressions of living in a plural context in various areas of Europe. Thursday, the final day of the conference, will focus on action. Fr. John van den Hengel of the General Council will present projects of other congregations while Fr. General will present a vision for a European project.