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PILGRIMAGE TO THE ROOTS
When one thinks of roots, a positive energy vibrates, for roots provide strength and anchors plant to the ground.
This was the entire purpose of the programme “Roots and Wings” at LePuy, France. The programme was organized from 3rd to 13th May 2022. Eleven participants from Five congregations (St. Joseph of Chambery, Annecy, Lyons, Cuneo and Institute) and four countries (India, Burkino Faso, RD Congo and Norway) were present. Sr. Gloria Philip (St. Joseph of Argentina) and Sr. Judy Donovan (St. Joseph of Lyons) were the resource persons.
OBSERVE… CONTEMPLATE…FLOW…
The whole programme was centered on three key words.
The input sessions enhanced our understanding on our Roots (History, Charism, Spirituality and etc.) in the afternoons and evenings we went on a pilgrimage, walking to the Church of the College where Fr. Medaille prayed and preached, walking on the streets where our Founder and the first sisters walked, being in the First Kitchen and in the place of guillotine, synography, grave of Mother Fontbonne all led me TO BE in our beginnings.
It was such a rich experience that I ever imagined, just in a spur of the moment I will have a blessing to be going back to 1650s and be immersed in their place, thoughts and spirit. It was indeed a Blissful and mystical experience to be treasured for me. The various beautiful churches that we visited left me in wonder and amazement for the beautiful art and architecture centuries ago.
Sr. Simone (Institute of St. Joseph, France) elaborately narrated France History during 17th Century which led to the establishment of our Congregation and 18th Century to French Revolution, helped us understand the background and history in a better way.
The whole atmosphere at Lepuy International Centre was peaceful, comfortable and space for learning. Evenings after dinner we put up cultural programme by various countries, through which we were all enriched and enjoyed the cultures and traditions of other countries.
DOWN THE MEMORY LANE
My pilgrimage to the roots continued even during my stay at Chambery 13th -22nd May. Sr.Jona organized my pilgrimage well, to the grave of Mother Marcoux, St. Jean De Maurienne, Chambery city, Memory Hall, Aix les Bains, Communities, nursing care home and etc. It continued to help me understand past and present. I feel fortunate and blessed to have been seeing our origin from where springs forth our life and wings to soar high in the spirit of our foundation. All through my pilgrimage I experienced God as a constant guide journeying with me and endowing me with enriching experiences.
I was deeply moved to see our France sisters though being advanced in age, contribute happily and willingly to the mission of God in every possible way. I greatly admire the Indian sisters adding life to the mission. I was led by the Spirit to daily pray for vocations and for more missionaries.
LIVING AND BEING
My pilgrimage continues for my whole life in ‘LIVING AND BEING’ all the learning and experience. Specially truly being a,
At the conclusion I have learned to look at everything through the lens of.
God. Finally I am flying with the wing that is strengthened at the roots. This also enriches my Flow. Flowing is not an action, it is letting God pass through us, and God enlivening us and let God live through us.
Sr. Gloria Clarence - Tanmaya/India
Thank you for sharing. Those who have not yet got chance they too can feel the holiness of the places. God be glorified.
Prayerful wishes dear sisters. My visit to France is refreshed with your narrations. Thank you
