Jaipur: The city of Jaipur recently hosted a significant national-level seminar focused on the vital theme of psycho-spiritual integration, bringing together members of the Mission Sisters of Ajmer (MSA) for a four-day journey of reflection, healing, and empowerment. Held from September 8 to 12, 2025, at the Gyandeep Pastoral Centre, the program aimed at harmonizing mental health, psychological wellness, and spiritual growth in the life and mission of religious sisters.
The event was spearheaded by Sr. Goretti D’Souza, Superior General of the MSA, along with her Councilors Sr. Arlene Fernandes, Ancy Antony, and Aurora. About 150 Sisters took part, divided into two age-based groups: the first comprising members between 35 and 50 years, and the second including those aged 50 to 63 years. This arrangement allowed the sessions to address age-specific challenges, especially in managing personal growth and vocational responsibilities.
The seminar was spiritually anchored in the Holy Eucharist, solemnly celebrated by Bishop Joseph Kallarackal, with concelebrants Fr. Jijo Varghese, Director of Gyandeep Pastoral Centre, along with Fr. Vishal and Fr. Shinto Mathew.
The program featured a diverse set of sessions that combined psychological tools with spiritual insights. Topics such as Crisis Management, Leadership Skills, Self-Care, Midlife Crisis, Inner Child Development, and Stress-Relief Techniques were explored in depth. Guided meditations, group activities, interactive games, and action songs created a participatory atmosphere, enabling the sisters to reflect on their inner lives while strengthening their capacity for mission.
Participants were encouraged to understand how emotional stability and psychological health contribute to deeper spiritual maturity. This integration, according to facilitators, not only helps religious women handle stress and interpersonal challenges with resilience but also enriches their prayer life, community relationships, and apostolic service.
The sessions drew on the expertise of leading voices in the field of Catholic mental health ministry. Fr. Shinto OCD, National President of the Catholic Mental Health Ministry (CMHM) in India, emphasized the importance of addressing mental health concerns within the Church as a pastoral priority. Sr. Joan MMS, National Secretary of CMHM and Director of the St. Dymphna National Institute of Well-being, highlighted how psycho-spiritual care can serve as a preventive and curative measure in religious life. Sr. Rani Augustine MSA, National Director of Outreach at CMHM India and Associate Director of the St. Dymphna Institute, shared practical models of outreach, inner healing, and holistic growth.
For the participants, the seminar was not merely a series of lectures but a transformative encounter. Practical tools for self-awareness, balanced living, and inner healing were provided, helping them to nurture their relationship with God while staying attentive to their emotional well-being. The holistic approach left the sisters with renewed joy, deeper peace, and a sense of authenticity in their vocation.
The National Seminar in Jaipur thus became a milestone for the Mission Sisters of Ajmer, preparing them to continue their mission with resilience, compassion, and a stronger foundation of psycho-spiritual integration.