In this bicentennial year marking the founding of our Congregation, we held our annual gathering on June 18, 19, and 20 at the Provincial House in Tarumi. Thirty-five sisters attended.
We spent two days sharing our life and mission, as well as receiving updates from the Province and the General Team. We also discussed the closing of the Bicentennial Year in Vic and matters related to the restructuring of the Province. In addition, we were briefed on the current status of the two educational institutions we operate today.
All of this calls us to make decisions in light of the new historical moment that is unfolding. To do so, we need to continue earnestly on the path of discernment. We feel that the Spirit is strongly urging us toward a process of renewal for our Province at this present moment.
On the last day, we joyfully celebrated the Diamond Jubilee—that is, the 70th anniversary of Consecrated Life—of four sisters. Many people and teams worked to make this celebration possible: the kitchen staff, the teams responsible for decorating the chapel and the dining hall, as well as the team in charge of recreation and entertainment after the festive meal. Everyone demonstrated great creativity and dedication.
This gathering has helped us strengthen our bond as the Vedruna family, where we feel the presence of Joaquina, our Mother, who continues to walk with us.
Each community is preparing to celebrate the Bicentennial Year in their respective parishes during the second half of this year. In May, we already solemnly celebrated this event in the Shimada community. In August, we will celebrate it together with the community in Taiwan, where we will also welcome the formation of the first group of the Vedruna Laity in the Province of Japan.
Sr. Mitsue Shirahama, ccv
