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Philippine-Australia-Saipan Province Sending off of the novices |
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After having successfully completed the canonical year in the novitiate, which is an initiation to the Consecrated Life in the Pastoral Ministry, and in which in deepened our relationship with God in our vocational choice, the five of us, young novices of PI-AU-SA were commissioned for Pastoral Exposure as part of our Formation Program. |
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The simple sending off ceremony, led by our Novice Formator, Sr. Revelina B. Santiago, SJBP was held last May 29, 2009 at 5:00 pm. at the Novitiate Chapel at Broadway, Quezon City. Sr. Lily Ann Santos, SJBP, the Provincial vicar commissioned us and shared some words of wisdom. Some Sisters from the other communities were also present for the occasion. |
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We were asked: “Are you ready to accept to be sent out to the apostolic communities of the Sisters of Jesus Good Shepherd? Are you prepared to persevere in this mission?” We were then assigned to the following communities:
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The symbolic anointing with Holy Oil followed with the moving words: “May your mission be inspired by the Cross of Christ” after which the five of us prayed the Prayer of “Entrusting of Oneself to Mary”. |
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In preparation for this meaningful event, we spent 3 days of silence to internalize more deeply the Spiritual Exercises we have attended last April. The spiritual accompaniment has helped us to contemplate the work of the Spirit in us and to recognize the hand of the Lord in every event of our lives, responding gratefully to the Father’s will of love for us.
I wish to highlight some words from the inspiring message Sr. Lily Ann has imparted to us: “To follow Christ is to allow ourselves to be conformed to Christ”. Only in allowing ourselves to be formed as fishers of men can we be able to accomplish the mission entrusted to us by Christ Himself. In our short apostolic experience, we are given the opportunity to share in His mission in the pastoral ministry. |
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This day I was commissioned to go, to a place unfamiliar and uncertain. I admit I have some worries and fears--fear to venture to the unknown. Yet, as what the disciples did, I am invited to leave my “nets” behind - my securities and my comfort zone to be able to follow the Lord who calls me and loves me first of all.
For six months, I will experience living in a small community, sharing the apostolate of the Sisters, learning to manage my personal and community schedule, striving to balance life of prayer, study, apostolate and community life… will these be possible? Yes, if I let go and allow Him, Jesus, my Good Shepherd to pasture me.
Novice Marnie Cabiles |
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