It was with great joy that, on August 11th, 2019, I officialized my commitment to follow on the footsteps of Saint Francis and Mother Frances Schervier as an Associate of the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor. The ceremony took place at the Santa Izabel Convent, located in Jataí, Goiás. Sisters Lécia, Helena Paula, Marta, Bernadete and Terezinha were present, as well as my mother Augusta Vitória, my sister Alice Bernardina, and many other Associates and friends.

I have known the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor since I was a child at the São Judas Tadeu parish, where the Sisters performed pastoral work. The Sisters have always been present in my memories, especially Sisters Daniela and Augusta, who visited us at home and developed a friendship with my mother. At my house, there used to be many fruit trees, especially papaya and lemon trees.

With these fruits, Sr. Daniela would make syrups and vermifuge medicines. We would use these products ourselves, and she’d donate them to the children of our local community. Sr. Augusta was also a remarkable presence at the catechesis and activities related to pastoral care for children. She also visited neighborhoods such as José Bento and Vila Mutirão. I joined her in such visits, and among other things, we weighed the children.

I was very happy to start participating in the meetings for Health and Mission Pastorals together with sisters Marta, Thalyta and Helena Paula. These meetings allowed me to spend more time with my SFP family, as I’d join them in visits, rosary, prayers and other activities. As time went by, I became more acquainted with the Franciscan charism and especially with the life of Mother Frances Schervier, as well as the activities undertaken by the Congregation.

Sister Thalyta invited me to participate in the Associates program, and I started my formation process. When she moved to another city, Sr. Helena Paula took over the responsibility for my formation, sharing more about the lives of Saint Francis, Saint Clare and Mother Frances.
It is indeed a blessing for me to become part of this family in 2019 as we celebrate the Bicentennial of Mother Frances and the Year of the Cure.
With the Grace of God, I expect to fulfill all expectations as an Associate regarding the mission and the Charism of Mother Frances by caring for the poor and the suffering, and offering my sincere contributions through dedication, service and prayer.

Maria Aparecida da Silva, Sfp Associate

Published: November 22, 2019