PSA Sisters Strengthen Leadership Through Seminar on Pastoral Accompaniment

Udaipur, June 19: In an effort to foster compassionate, visionary, and service-oriented leadership within religious communities, the PSA Sisters of St. Teresa Province, Udaipur, organised a two-day Leadership Seminar on “Pastoral Leadership and Accompaniment” at the PSA St. Teresa Provincial House on June 14–15.

The programme was designed for newly appointed Superiors and Ministry In-Charges and brought together 45 participants. Among those present were Sr. Joicy PSA, Superior General, along with her Team; Sr. Shamini PSA, Provincial Superior and her Team; and Sr. Mukta PSA, Regional Superior and her Team.

The seminar was facilitated by Fr. Shinto Mathew OCD, National President of the Catholic Mental Health Ministry (CMHM), India, whose extensive experience, practical insights, and engaging presentations made the programme both enriching and transformative. Through interactive presentations, group discussions, and reflective exercises, he guided participants in exploring leadership as a ministry grounded in service, accompaniment, vision, and compassion.

Addressing the challenges of leadership in a rapidly changing world, Fr. Shinto invited participants to critically reflect on the authenticity of their leadership and to cultivate environments that nurture younger generations while accompanying elderly members with dignity and care. He stressed the importance of enabling senior religious to age gracefully within their communities.

The sessions covered a range of contemporary leadership themes, including neuroplasticity, growth mindset, agile leadership, servant leadership, emotional intelligence, communication skills, and the habits of highly effective people. Participants were encouraged to embrace lifelong learning, adaptability, and innovation as essential qualities for effective leadership today.

A significant focus of the seminar was on pastoral accompaniment and empathetic leadership. Fr. Shinto underscored the need for leaders to listen attentively, empower others, foster collaboration, and create communities where every member feels valued and respected. He emphasised that true leadership is rooted not in control but in service; not in power but in purpose.

“Leadership is not merely a position of authority but a sacred ministry of service, accompaniment, vision, and compassion,” he reminded participants.

The programme concluded with the participants expressing renewed enthusiasm and commitment to lead their communities with wisdom, courage, and a spirit of service.

The PSA Sisters of St. Teresa Province continue to invest in leadership formation as part of their mission to serve the Church more effectively. Their ongoing collaboration with the Catholic Mental Health Ministry India is expected to further strengthen community life, personal wellbeing, and pastoral ministries across the region, helping them become Christ-centered leaders and effective instruments of transformation in their communities and apostolates.

By Sr. Virginia T Sangma , Executive Secretary CMHM