The Mass for the vows of Crystal (Philippines) and Nadia (Egypt) was celebrated on 14 April in Ein Kerem, near Jerusalem, by Bishop Rafic Nahra, patriarchal vicar for Israel based in Nazareth, auxiliary bishop of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and long-time friend of Notre Dame de Sion.
In his homily, Bishop Nahra commented on the readings from Deuteronomy (Dt 6: 4-6, 30: 11-14) and the Gospel of John (Jn 4:1-29) and wished Nadia and Crystal a life of charity, sharing, truth and confidence, filled with the Word of God and the Holy Spirit.
Signing the vows.
After reciting their vows, Nadia and Crystal received the NDS medallion and a copy of the Congregation’s Constitution from Superior General Sr Oonah O’Shea, upon which the church resounded with applause, smiles and love. Afterwards, the Sion sisters present gathered by the altar and sang a hearty Magnificat, the “Song of Mary”.
Sisters of Our Lady of Sion gather at the altar to sing the Magnificat.
Both vow-takers had the opportunity to say a few words.
Sr Crystal: “I felt a very strong call to be like an ark.”
Crystal shared how she’d felt during the retreat she had just taken part in at Kiryat-Yearim, the place of the Ark of the Covenant. “I felt a very strong call to be like an ark,” she said, “to grow in my capacity to hold the tensions in our life and in our world.”
As is customary in NDS ceremonies, several languages featured: English for the most part, but also Arabic, Tagalog, Hebrew and French.
Sr Nadia: “I want to thank all of you.”
Nadia spoke of her continuous surprise about what God does for her, and was full of thanks – expressed sometimes in English and sometimes in Arabic – towards the many people who have supported her.
Family members, friends and NDS sisters who were unable to be present in person took part remotely. During the course of the celebration, many sent messages of congratulation and unity in prayer.
During the Mass, with Sr Oonah, Superior General, and Sr Juliana, Novice Mistress.
With Sisters Trudy and Teresa, who will walk with them through the next stage of their formation.
With Bishop Nahra and concelebrants.
Congratulations!
Joy is shared.
The new sisters listen attentively to a more experienced companion.