Shanthi Ashram, PUNE

January 12, 2026

The Province Chapter 2026 of the Society of St. Ursula, Ursuline Sisters of the Blessed Virgin Mary (SU), Province of India, was prayerfully and successfully held from 9th to 11th January 2026. The Chapter brought together the General Team members and 47 elected delegates of the Province for a time of deep reflection, discernment, and communal decision-making.

The Chapter began on the morning of 9th January with a prayer service. Following this, the Superior General, Rev. Sr. Rita D’Silva, addressed the gathering and officially announced the appointment of Rev. Sr. Valery Borges as the new Provincial Superior of the Province India .

In the evening, a spiritual talk on leadership was organized, delivered by Rev. Fr. Tony Prem, who emphasized the call to leadership rooted in humility and service, encouraging the sisters to be true servants of God and the people.

The entire day was dedicated to silent recollection, prayer, and personal reflection. This sacred time created a spiritually enriching atmosphere, allowing the delegates to listen attentively to the promptings of the Holy Spirit in preparation for the decisions ahead.

On the final day, the delegates gathered once again in prayer and reflection. The Holy Eucharist was solemnly celebrated by Rev. Fr. Roque Alphonso in a spirit of gratitude, unity, and renewed commitment to the Ursuline mission.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, the Provincial Councillors were elected. The newly elected Provincial Team is as follows:

• Sr. Sandhya Kuruvilla – Provincial Assistant

• Sr. Jolly Poonath Antony – Provincial Councillor

• Sr. Marina Thomas – Provincial Councillor

• Sr. Leena D’Souza – Provincial Councillor

• Sr. Karuna Sadaphal – Provincial Councillor

The Superior General, Rev. Sr. Rita D’Silva, warmly congratulated Rev. Sr. Valery Borges and the newly elected Provincial Team. She also expressed her deep gratitude and sincere appreciation to Rev. Sr. Marina Thomas and her team for their committed leadership and dedicated service to the Province.

The Province Chapter election, 2026 thus concluded with a grace-filled experience, renewing the sisters’ commitment to their Ursuline charism, mission, and service to the Church and society.

A special highlight of the occasion was the launch of the newly designed province India website, inaugurated by Rev. Sr. Rita D’Silva, Superior General, along with Rev. Sr. Marina Thomas, Provincial. The website launch marks an important step in strengthening communication, visibility, and mission outreach of the Province.