In Circular 58, Mother Angela discussed the Jubilee events for our Congregation's 150th Jubilee Year. She wrote about the opportunities for the Sisters to participate in various congregational activities during that special year for both our Congregation and the Universal Church. My heart was filled with great joy when I read about a Professed Sisters’ Meeting for Sisters who had been in the Congregation for 25 years or more. This gathering, arranged by the General Administration as part of our congregational formation, was scheduled for December 27, 2024, to January 6, 2025. The meeting aimed to bring together Sisters from different countries and cultures, allowing us to experience the reality and richness of our congregational internationality under the protection of our Blessed Mother Foundress. We deepened our spirituality and followed in her footsteps around the Eternal City. Additionally, we had the opportunity to enjoy Rome as the heart of the Congregation and the Church during that Jubilee time.
Beside my bed, next to the Holy Cross, there was a picture of our Mother Foundress. I prayed to her every day, and over time, my desire to learn more about her grew stronger. Perhaps this longing was amplified as I approached my forthcoming 50th Anniversary in Religious Life—if God’s will. So, when the opportunity arose, I embraced it wholeheartedly. I was truly grateful to Mother General, the General Administration, and Australian Province Administration for granting me the opportunity and permission to participate in that blessed event. Not only did I gain profound insights about Blessed Frances of Jesus the Good Shepherd through the wonderful Sisters in Rome during face-to-face meetings and online sessions from the USA, but I also had the chance to read some of Mother Foundress's letters and touch the objects that she used, walking in her footsteps with fellow Sisters.
During that brief time, I was truly blessed to connect with my Sisters from around the world. Living in a community of just two Sisters, it was a remarkable experience to meet so many others, sharing prayers, meals, and stories together. I will always treasure their genuine openness, kindness, and unique spirits.
Moreover, that year, the Universal Church opened the Holy Doors of the Roman Cathedrals for pilgrims. Our group had the opportunity to visit many sacred sites, including Loreto and Assisi, both of which were so dear to our Mother Foundress and our Congregation. The beauty of the Church filled my heart to the brim. I felt a strong urge to be a true witness of the great experiences I had during that Holy Year: to be present, witness those moments, and share them with others. Words could not fully convey my gratitude. Together with Our Lady of Grace, I wished to thank God and my Sisters for the wonderful experience of that Jubilee Year in Rome. Sr Joseph
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