AMOR on the Journey: Growing and Bearing Fruit—these are the key words conveyed by Mgr. Benedictus Estephanus Rolly Untu, M.S.C., the KOPTARI-KWI liaison, to the AMOR participants. As outlined in *Vita Consecrata* No. 72, the essence, dignity, and identity of religious life (consecrated life) include the call to holiness, the mission to serve, and the duty to witness Christ’s presence in the world. AMOR aims to foster true fraternity and collaboration among women's religious orders in the Asia-Oceania region. Its goal is to reignite the prophetic spirit and illuminate the vocation of consecrated life, encourage a deep appreciation for the charism and spirituality of each member or congregation, and provide renewal in alignment with regional contexts and the current global situation.
In her notes, Sr. Lee, OSU, as the facilitator, emphasized the importance of following Jesus’ actions through the process of (See – Judge – Act). She explained that, following Jesus’ example, we are invited to recognize that every contribution is valuable—nothing is too small if we offer it to Jesus and trust in His transformative power. In responding to the needs of creation today, even small and simple actions can make a difference. In Mandarin, the character for (CRISIS) can be interpreted as both an opportunity and a crucial turning point—where change begins. Perhaps we can start viewing what seems to be a crisis in a new light, with a fresh perspective and new possibilities for creating positive change.
After going through the process of "Seeing" and "Judging" over several days, participants were invited to complete the final step, "Acting." This action was not only taken individually but also collaboratively, aiming to make a difference and carry forward the work initiated in Indonesia with greater enthusiasm—in their roles as prophets of hope and peace. Through group discussions, the AMOR Meeting reached a joint agreement on several key recommendations: Promoting and strengthening interfaith collaboration, Encouraging, initiating, and continuing concrete actions for environmental care, Supporting Talitha Kum (the Anti-Human Trafficking Movement), Establishing a secretariat and contact person within each national conference to facilitate ongoing cooperation.
The goal of this meeting will be achieved if the movement begins with each member and community striving to be **Salt and Light of the World**, and if this movement is implemented both in our institutions/communities and in the foundation of community life in such a way that it continually illuminates everyone in our shared home (cf. Matthew 5:13-16). This affirmation was shared by Mgr. Rolly Untu with the AMOR participants.
The entire AMOR XVIII meeting concluded with a Eucharistic Celebration led by Nuncio Mgr. Piero Pioppo. In his homily, Mgr. Pioppo reminded the participants of the spirit of becoming joyful and profound preachers. His message emphasized the importance of living as witnesses of faith with a deep sense of joy and commitment. This closing celebration marked the culmination of the AMOR gathering, reinforcing the call to carry the light of the Gospel in both personal and collective actions.
Finally, the time for farewell arrived for all the participants of AMOR XVIII. The sisters and other participants hugged and bid each other farewell. The few days of gathering not only helped build networks but also strengthened the fraternity among them. Many expressed their gratitude for the encouraging and enriching experience, and they looked forward to meeting again at the next AMOR gathering.
