The Holy Spirit Province of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth (CSFN) celebrated a significant day on 4 January – the commissioning of their new Provincial, Sr Rita Apura, and her team of Sr Margaret, Sr Paula and Sr Christine.
It was also a moment to install new community leaders across the province – which is in all communities in NSW and Western Australia – on a day filled with gratitude, hope and renewal.
The day began with a beautiful Eucharistic liturgy led by Fr Diosdado, followed by a lunch where heartfelt thanks were expressed to the outgoing Provincial Administration – led by Sr Margaret – and warm words of welcome extended to the new team. The gathering was also blessed with the presence of Superior General Sr Angela Marie Mazzeo.
During the lunch, Sr Margaret expressed her gratitude to her council and to each sister for their support throughout her leadership.
Outgoing provincial Sr Margaret spoke of her gratitude for all the support she had received during her tenure. Image: Supplied
She assured every sister: “I care for each of you and have tried my best to serve you faithfully.” She presented each community with the letter and the gift of appreciation on her behalf and her outgoing team.
Sr Alicja, a member of the outgoing team, offered a profound reflection on the meaning of this transition, drawing inspiration from Scripture.
“In the Book of Samuel, we read that every year Samuel’s mother brought him a new garment. This detail reminds us that as Samuel grew, he changed. In the same way, our Province has grown and changed in many ways over these past six years – through joys and sorrows, challenges and blessings.”
She highlighted some of the significant milestones during her term.
“We lost dear Sr Flavia, Sr Sophie, and Sr Bogumila, and we welcomed back Sr Helen and welcomed new sisters: Jeremiah and Venus. We walked together through the journey of redress and safeguarding, witnessed the beginning of a new building at Holy Family Services, and grew into a stronger financial position, enabling us to be more generous in our support of others. And of course, we celebrated our 150th Jubilee – a reminder that God has been with us through every step, clothing us with His grace.”
Sr Rita, centre, Sr Christine, left, and Sr Paula wearing the raincoats they were given. Image: Supplied
She concluded with a symbolic gesture to Sr Rita and her council.
“As Elijah’s garment fell to Elisha, signifying God’s abiding presence and mission, so may you, dear Sister, be for us a garment of God’s presence and mission entrusted to all of us in the Holy Spirit Province. As a sign of this, we offer you this gift – a raincoat. May it protect you from the winds of adversity and the rains of challenge, and remind you that you are clothed in the grace and strength of God.”
Sr Grace, on behalf of the province, expressed deep appreciation for the outgoing Provincial Council.
“We give thanks for your leadership and your dedication over these past six years. You have guided us through times of challenge and joy, always with faith and courage. Your efforts have strengthened our Province and enriched our mission.”
Sr Grace addressing members of the province. Image: Supplied
She also reminded the sisters of their shared mission.
“Though we have many different gifts, together we have a ministry of reconciliation led by the crucified and risen Christ, who calls us to act in solidarity with the hopes and joys, the anxieties and sorrows, of men and women everywhere. It is our prayer that we may become a community in which every person can discover and stir into flame the gift God has given, whatever that gift may be.”
This day was not only about leadership but about renewing the sisters’ commitment to live the spirit of Nazareth – to serve families and spread the fire of God’s love in our world.
Please keep Sr Rita and her team, as well as all sisters of the Holy Spirit Province, in your prayers as they begin this new mission.
For more information on the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, go to their website.
