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SUMMARY OF THE FIRST FRATERNAL CONVERSATION

Date: 30th July, 2025

Time: 8:30 PM (Nigeria Time)

Topic: The Care and Well-Being of Members

The following are the salient points that emerged during this deeply fraternal and enriching exchange:

1. Expression of Gratitude

A heartfelt note of appreciation was extended to all participants for setting aside time for this meaningful conversation. There is confident hope that the insights shared and the recommendations proposed will not only be acknowledged but, where feasible, duly implemented.

2. Clarifying the Concept of Welfare

It was deemed imperative to articulate a proper and comprehensive understanding of the term welfare. A pressing question arose: When we speak of welfare, what precisely do we mean? Is it limited merely to financial contributions during bereavements or attendance at funeral rites?

Definition:

Priest welfare may be succinctly defined as the holistic provision for the spiritual, emotional, physical, and material well-being of the priest, enabling him to serve with dignity, joy, and undivided devotion to his sacred calling.

The welfare of the individual must be recognised as the very heart of the mission.

3. Institution of a Functional Welfare Committee

In light of this refined understanding of welfare, it was strongly proposed that a properly constituted and functional Welfare Committee be established, with one of the Council Members appointed as its chairperson.

Testimonies and Observations from Personal Experience

Members are encouraged to be intentional about their personal care—mindful of dietary habits, undergoing routine medical checkups, and fostering a spirit of mutual support and visitation.

The Provincial Superior and his Council are urged to accord greater pastoral sensitivity to the health concerns and medical needs of their members.

Annual medical checkups should be promoted and encouraged as a standard part of priestly wellness.

A significant financial outlay is being made by the Province toward the health insurance scheme. However, members are not reaping its full benefits. It was therefore proposed that a competent individual, conversant with the intricacies of the EMI system, be appointed to guide and assist members in accessing the entitlements duly paid for by the Province.

A comprehensive seminar on the EMI health system should be organized to educate members on their rights, obligations, and procedures to follow when health challenges arise.

The fraternal delegation of numerous portfolios to a single individual should be kindly and firmly discouraged. This practice poses a risk to personal health and undermines the truth that no one possesses a monopoly on pastoral efficacy or charisms.

Members should be encouraged to express their thoughts openly and respectfully, fostering a culture of dialogue rather than indulging in gossip or clandestine meetings.

This synthesis constitutes the essential reflections from our last conversation. Sincere thanks to all participants for their presence, insights, and fraternal spirit.

May the Lord reward you all abundantly. Amen.

Fr. Rome Ndii Onyekuru, SMA