During this year, the bicentenary of the birth of Mother Frances, God gifted me with a rich and intense experience that transformed my life. During my stay in Italy, I developed skills such as the ability to adapt to the climate, learning of the language, and an appreciation for the multiculturalism of our religious family. I also was touched by the care and the warm welcome given to me. The Sisters helped me to increase the grace of the community life, spend in simplicity and joy – and improve my health. Visits to of our different communities and ministries, made me more aware of the joyful commitment of our Sisters in the service of all people who are poor in any way. The Mass of the 24th December with the prisoners affected my life in that I became more committed in the Pastoral. Welcoming the Prince of the Peace among these prisoners provoked in me an immense joy. 

I was also given an opportunity of taking part of an education of young Professed Sisters of my religious Franciscan family in Assisi. The theme of this session was “the grace of the community.” It consisted of a rich sharing of mutual knowledge -- and proof of community life in our several institutes. Starting from the common root of the Franciscan family, our mentors made us aware of the importance of San Francis’ universal brotherhood and sisterhood, as well as of the unity among the different charismas. I believe that unity among us is necessary for a effective evangelization.
In conclusion, I reiterate my sincere gratitude to my supervisors, Sister Licia and her Council, as well as to all the Sisters and the Associates in Italy. God transform our efforts and grants us grace and blessings.

Sr. Pélagie Ilboudo, sfp

Published: March 28, 2019