Reflecting on these past 25 years, I am deeply thankful to God, my religious community, our associates, my family, and friends who have been steadfast companions on this sacred path. Reminiscing about that windy and cold but joyful day on May 18, 2024 at 12:00pm, at Our Lady of Czestochowa, Polish War Memorial Chapel, the Eucharistic celebration was held. Standing at the threshold of my 25th Silver Jubilee in religious life, my heart overflows with gratitude. This milestone is not merely a testament to my perseverance, but a celebration of divine grace, unwavering support, and love that have shaped my journey.
First and foremost, I am profoundly grateful to God. It is His calling that brought me to this consecrated life, to the doorstep of our Congregation, the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth. God's grace has been the cornerstone of my journey, providing strength in moments of weakness, joy in times of sorrow, and clarity amid confusion. Each day, I have felt His guiding hand, leading me to live with humility and love. My Silver Jubilee was a celebration that reflected God's generosity and the countless blessings He bestowed upon me.
My religious community has been a source of immense support and inspiration. Living in community has taught me the values of compassion, self-giving, letting go, forgiveness, and commitment. The communal prayers, shared mission, and collective witness have enriched my spiritual journey and provided a sense of belonging. My fellow sisters have been my mentors, friends, and co-pilgrims, offering wisdom and encouragement. Their dedication to our shared mission has been a constant reminder of the beauty and power of a life devoted to God. As I celebrate this significant milestone, I express my heartfelt gratitude to my religious family in Holy Spirit Province here in Australia for their unwavering support and the profound impact they have had on my life. Thank you, my Sisters!
Despite the distance and physical longing, my family has been a great source of faith and hope, providing unconditional love and support throughout my religious journey. Their faith in God and their encouragement have been instrumental in my spiritual growth. They have celebrated my joys, shared in my challenges, and have always been a source of comfort and strength. The values instilled in me by my parents, my siblings, and the love of my extended family have all played a crucial role in shaping who I am today. As I look back on these 25 years, I am deeply thankful for their sacrifices and their unwavering belief in my vocation. Their love has been a constant reminder of God's love, and for that, I am eternally grateful.
My friends, both within and outside the religious community, have been a vital part of my journey. Their companionship, understanding, and support have made this path easier and more joyful. They have stood by me in times of need, celebrated my achievements, and provided a listening ear and a comforting presence. The friendships I have forged over the years have been a source of great joy and have enriched my life in countless ways. Their prayers, encouragement, and acts of kindness have been a testament to the power of true friendship. As I mark this Silver Jubilee, I thank my friends for their invaluable presence in my life and for the love and support they have generously shared.
Celebrating 25 years of religious life is a momentous occasion, one that fills my heart with immense gratitude. My Silver Jubilee in religious life is not just a celebration of my journey, but a witness of God’s love and faithfulness, His abundant grace that has carried me through. To God, my religious community, our associates, my family, and my friends, I offer my deepest thanks. Your presence in my life has been a precious gift, and I am profoundly grateful for each of you. As I continue on this blessed path, I do so with a heart full of gratitude, with God's help ready to embrace the future with faith, hope, and love. May we all journey together with joy, for God is good and His steadfast love endures forever!
Sr. Rita Marie Apura, CSFN - of the Faithful Love of Jesus Crucified
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