Last night we celebrated the profession of Sister Michelle. She is now a full sister in the Oikos Community. There was a mass celebrated by the bishop, Most Reverend Bishop Crispin Vasquez, that was very beautiful and the Oikos choir sang like angels! The two seminarians of Oikos were on the altar with the bishop along with three altar servers. It was really a beautiful mass and ceremony. Sister Michelle professed her vows of poverty, chastity and obedience in front of her Oikos family and friends. Her family lives quite far from Borongan, and were unfortunately unable to attend, but through the magic of modern technology, Michelle was able to see them via video and hear beautiful messages from them.
The Oikos Sisters have not had a vocation since their beginnings, almost 18 years ago. They are so appreciated here and loved very much, but unfortunately, I think it is very difficult for people today to embrace a life of true poverty and obedience. When I think of all that these sisters have accomplished, the scholar program for college and high schools students, immersions, feeding programs, bible sharings for adults and children, formations, days of recollection, the livelihood programs of growing vegetables, water blessings and the piglet recycling program, medical and dental missions... it blows my mind that there are just 4... now 5 sisters who spearhead all of this work.
Sister Michelle is one of the sweetest people I have ever met. She is constantly thinking of others. She is a dentist by profession, she also is gifted in acupuncture, cooking and gardening. Sister Michelle also has a great sense of humor and is full of energy. She is a tiny woman who has the heart and spirit of a giant inside of her. She is always thinking of ways to help, heal and make others happy. She has a quick smile and a hearty laugh that is tempered by concern and love for all those around her. It has been an honor and a privilege to get to know her. Sister Michelle's faith is strong and she has such a longing and love for the Lord. I have learned so much from her!!
Below are some pictures of Sister Michelle and her special night...
Congratulations to Sister Michelle!! Please keep her in your prayers.
xxoo
