By Linda Quispe, Peru Link Communicator, Peru (Province of Peru)

Sisters and partners-in-mission gathered on April 5, 2026, in celebration of the Eucharist to mark the beginning of the new term of the Provincial Leadership Team for 2026 and 2027.

This team was elected during the 12^º Provincial Chapter which was held just weeks earlier from March 8 to 12, 2026. At the Chapter, apostolic and contemplative sisters, together with partners-in-mission, gathered under the theme “Passionate about the mission, we walk with hope toward regionalization.” It was a time marked by deep listening, shared reflection, and a renewed openness to the Spirit of the Good Shepherd moving among us.

During those days, we were acutely aware that this would be our last Provincial Chapter celebrated within the current structure. Our minds and hearts were full of nostalgia in every embrace and every glance, but with our eyes drawn towards the future, we felt ready to sail toward that “other shore” where regionalization awaits us. The guiding presence of Congregational Councilors Sr. Mirjam Beike y Sr. Yolanda Borbón was a source of encouragement, reminding us of our connection to the wider Congregation and our global mission.

The newly elected Provincial Leadership Team is composed of Sr. Marlene Acosta Tixi, who serves as Provincial Leader, together with Apostolic Sr. Karla Bernabé Lamadrid, Sr. Olga Soldevilla Ureta, Sr. Rosabel Pérez Antezana, y Contemplative Sr. Rosa Carrasco Espinal. Their “sí” to leadership reflects a shared commitment to accompany the province through a time of transition, attentive to both present needs and future possibilities.

The journey of the Province of Peru is part of a wider movement within the Congregation to reimagine our governance structures in response to changing realities. Over time, it has become clear that structures developed for the Congregation as it existed previously no longer serve the needs of today. As we seek to balance the number of sisters available for leadership roles and the increasing involvement of partners-in-mission, there is a growing awareness of the need to adapt in ways that sustain both community life and mission.

The emerging governance approach invites a shift from provinces to regions, encourages broader participation through extended leadership teams, and supports this transition through a process of ongoing implementation at the congregational level. Rather than waiting for existing structures to become unworkable, this is a step taken in faith and foresight—choosing to walk together into the future with intention.

In this light, the April 5 celebration was more than the beginning of a new term; it was a continuation of a deeper movement already unfolding. It echoed the spirit of the Chapter and pointed toward a way of being that is more interconnected, participative, and responsive to the needs of the world.

As seen in many parts of the Congregation, there is a growing sense that wisdom emerges from listening closely to lived realities. The province’s journey reflects this same dynamic, where reflection, mission, and relationship come together to shape the path forward.

With gratitude for what has been and openness to what is yet to come, our sisters and partners-in-mission continue to walk in hope. Grounded in the Good Shepherd charism, we move forward together, committed to fostering mercy, dignity, and compassion, especially among those who are most vulnerable.