On May 22, 2025, an exceptional day of faith, culture and joy was celebrated in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, on the occasion of the feast of the patroness Vedruna, foundress of the congregation of the Carmelite Sisters of Charity Vedruna. The celebration took place in two stages: first in the parish church of St. Martin, and then on the grounds of the Vedruna school complex, bringing together the infant, primary and secondary schools in a harmonious organization and full of activities.
The day began with a solemn Mass celebrated by the Auxiliary Bishop of Kinshasa East, His Grace Bishop Ntimba, in the parish of St. Martin. This powerful spiritual moment allowed the faithful, students, teachers and nuns to gather in prayer and gratitude, paying homage to the educational and charitable mission inherited from St. Joaquina de Vedruna.
After the celebration of the Eucharist, the activities continued on the esplanade of the school complex in a festive atmosphere. The official inauguration began with the playing of the national anthem, a symbol of unity and patriotic pride. Sister Valérie, Prefect of Secondary Studies, then took the floor to welcome the distinguished guests, the sisters coming from different communities of the congregation and all the participants.
The program was punctuated by an emotional speech by the students’ representative, the general bidel of the complex, followed by a series ofcultural and artistic activities: recitations by kindergarten students, a parade of primary school students accompanied by their teachers, songs and recitations, as well as a poem performed by a high school student.
The creativity and commitment of the participants were also evident in two plays: one performed by the students and the other by the staff of the Vedruna hospital, which demonstrated the unity and collaboration between the different branches of the Vedruna work. The ballet dance, carefully prepared by the students, added a touch of elegance and harmony to the celebrations. The final parade of the high school students preceded the highlight of the day: a musical performance by artist Bazarba, whose performance was unfortunately interrupted by unexpected rain.
After all these activities, an evening of dancing and cocktails was organized to round off the day in style. In a warm and friendly atmosphere, guests, sisters, teachers and students shared food, refreshments and moments of rejoicing, strengthening community ties in a spirit of joy and fraternity.
Despite the weather interruption, the feast of the Vedruna patroness will be remembered as a day of fraternal communion, cultural exchange and fidelity to the educational mission initiated by its founder. A celebration in the image of the Vedruna spirit: joyful, supportive and committed.
Sr. Chanceline Kayongo Mbele, ccv
