Each year, before the solemnity of Pentecost, the associates of the Daughters of the Holy Spirit congregation in the Vice-Province of Nigeria organise a programme to renew their Promise, in order to prepare themselves spiritually for the coming of the Holy Spirit. This year, they met on 26 and 27 May at the Renée Burel Centre in Ilesa, a town in Osun State. The Associates turned out in force, with 26 people in attendance.
During the first part of the meeting, they recalled the names of sick people they knew and prayed for their healing.
The second day was led by Reverend Father Raphael Ajewole, who led them in a penitential rite and the sacrament of reconciliation. This was followed by a Mass of thanksgiving and other rites. During this Mass, Father Raphaël invited the Associates to remain faithful to their commitment and never to shrink from the challenges of their lives. He prayed that God would bless them and grant them the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit, so that they would be faithful in bearing true witness to Christ, who is the initiator of their call.
During the Mass, two new people were received as Associates and made their commitment before the vice-provincial, Sister Ayeni, their interim coordinator, Sister Anthonia Ogunyomi, and the entire congregation present. The other Associates renewed their commitment.
The participants expressed their joy by singing and dancing to the glory of God. The vice-provincial, Sr Anthonia Ayeni, congratulated all the Associates present for their active participation, keeping faith in their vocation. She also encouraged them to work more fully in the service of God in humanity whenever their help was needed.
It was a happy day for all the associates, who returned home in an atmosphere of joy!
Patience EFFIONG, DHS. Published on 6 June 2023
