From left, Smolest Teresa Lamin, Tripty Teresa Gomes and Mala Chisim entered the Sisters of the Holy Cross candidacy program on June 22 at Deepaneeta Convent, Bangladesh.
by Smolest Teresa Lamin, Mala Chisim, and Tripty Teresa Gomes
We three young girls from different parts of Bangladesh were welcomed into the Sisters of the Holy Cross candidacy program June 22 at Deepaneeta Convent, Dharenda, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
We initiated our candidacy program with a prayer service. In preparation for the service, members of the Deepaneeta community were very busy with their work and responsibilities, some with cooking and liturgy, others with decorating the chapel, dining room, bulletin board, and so on. We experienced the team spirit and loving care of the community members, which gave us real joy and a sense of welcome.
The service opened with a procession; each of us entering the chapel with a candle. The prayer during the service was very meaningful and beautiful, and it helped us feel the importance of the day and gave us a sound peace in our hearts. The theme of the prayer was “Call to the Service of Life,” which was significant and meaningful for all of us, as was the reading for the day.
Area of Asia Coordinator Sister Pushpa Teresa Gomes, CSC, presented us with the Congregation’s Directory of Prayer and seven dolor beads. We felt great joy and happiness in our hearts, as prayer is a source of inspiration in our lives. After a special prayer, she welcomed us with bouquets of flowers. Sisters and discerners then greeted us, which encouraged us to go forward.
The wonderful gathering was followed by a delicious meal. The day ended with a short joyful program led by the sisters. The day’s experiences were very meaningful and encouraging—a memorable day for us all. We are thankful and grateful to God for the bountiful blessings on this day, and throughout our lives.
