At the heart of the Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd is woven a story of prayer, reflection and self-giving that has endured over two centuries. On November 11, 1825 in Tours, the first community of contemplative life was born, founded by Maria Euphrasia Pelletier. Now is a time to look back with gratitude and forward with hope, uniting our hearts in a renewed commitment to the spiritual depth and mission that has been entrusted to us.
From the earliest days of our community, we have been called to go into the heart of the universe. On this journey, we have discovered the beauty of silent prayer, the mystery of contemplation, and the deep connection with God. In these 200 years, we have cultivated a sacred space where the divine presence is experienced and shared. It is a tradition that has sustained us in times of joy and challenge, constantly reminding us of the importance of communion with God as the source of life.
Contemplative life is not a retreat from the world, but a call to immerse oneself more deeply in it. In these two centuries, we have learned that contemplation and action are inseparably intertwined. Our dedication to mission is the natural expression of a life rooted in contemplation. To celebrate these 200 years is also to renew our commitment to bring the light of spirituality to the darkest corners of our world.
In this time of preparation for the journey of living the Jubilee year, I extend a warm invitation to our entire Congregation to join in with a renewed commitment to a life of deep prayer and generous dedication to the mission. It is an invitation to immerse ourselves in spirituality, to rediscover the joy of contemplation and to open our hearts to God’s constant call.
We have learned that our contemplative life is not only a gift to us, but a light to the world. As we unite in prayer and action, in contemplation and surrender, we continue to weave the history of our Congregation into the tapestry of divine grace.
May the flame of contemplation continue to burn in our hearts and may we move forward with renewed zeal towards the future that God has prepared for us.
May the celebration of these 200 years be a living testimony of our contemplative life, a light that illuminates the path towards the divine presence and the mission that awaits us!
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By Sr. Cristina Rodriguez de la Cruz, Congregational Councilor
