“Fear nothing, for I have redeemed you, I have called you by your name: you are mine, if you cross the waters, I will be with you …” Isaiah 43: 1b -2 a.
Jesus is surely faithful to all those who put their trust in Him. Thinking back on my vocation, I see that the Lord has been a faithful companion in my journey. He allowed me to rejoice in moments of joy, he revealed himself to me and strengthened me in difficult times.
Today, as I pronounce my final vows, to be renewed each day, I ask Mary Our Lady of Africa and our mother to continue to accompany me in my vocation so that I can grow in the love of her Son and his Mission. By imitating his example, I say “yes” to the call of the Lord: “I am the servant of the Lord, let it be done to me according to your word.” Luke 1:38.
Thank you to Sister Carmen Sammut, our Superior General and her council for having accepted me for perpetual vows. Thank you to Sister Jeanne d’ Arc Ouattara and all the Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Africa especially those of Chad for their prayers and their support. Thank you, my sisters, for helping me to grow in my vocation and for welcoming me to share with you forever, the Lord’s universal mission.
In my home parish, many people were involved in the preparations: parish priest and his assistant, the religious communities of my parish and other parishes, choirs, groups, catechists, Christian faithful and the organizing team. We sometimes felt tired but at the same time we did not feel alone because we felt the family spirit that reigned through the sharing of ideas and commitment of each one.
I am very grateful to my parents and my family who welcomed my choice to join the Congregation of the Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Africa and for all their support. I thank my brothers, sisters, all my extended family and friends for their support, prayers and preparation for carrying out this beautiful and prayerful celebration. Marsioyonyan.
Thank you and may the Lord who calls us every day to follow him, continue to give the grace to say “Yes” generously to collaborate with him in his mission throughout the world.
Sr. Bernadette Djekoye
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