I am Sr. Marie, a provincial superior. Sr. Tabitha, a perpetually professed member, is working in a government hospital for fifteen years. She has been working there with the permission of my predecessor. For six months, she has not been giving her salary to the Institute. She uses it for her comforts. I talked this matter over with her and reminded her about her obligation, with no effect. How should I proceed?
Consecrated life is a gift bestowed on the Church by the Holy Spirit to enhance her quality of life (Lumen Gentium, 44; can. 577 CIC). Those who accept this way of life profess the evangelical counsels of chastity, poverty and obedience in accordance with universal and particular laws of each Institute (can. 573 §2 CIC). As a consequence of their public profession, they acquire membership in an Institute with rights and duties defined by universal law and the Constitutions (can. 654 CIC). Therefore all those who opt for this life must observe the evangelical counsels and direct their lives according to the laws of the Church and the Institute. However, this yearning for a life of holiness is often threatened by human fragility. The case given here is an example of such human vulnerability.
Sr Navya Thattil OSF
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