Awakening Dreams, Inspiring Purposes

Continuing a mission is more than repeating steps: it is renewing our commitment to what we believe in.

Since March 2024, our Congregation has been operating in the Diocese of Paulo Afonso, Bahia, with a presence in the Sagrada Família Parish, Tancredo Neves Neighborhood (BTN II), whose pastor is Father José Ronnes dos Santos Santana. Here, we collaborate in the accompaniment, formation, community development, pastoral work, and movements, within our capabilities. Whenever possible, we visit schools with activities.

From October 13th to 16th, we carried out our second mission to schools (the first was held in March 2023). On this mission, we had the presence and collaboration of Sisters Adriana Fogaça and Rosilene de Lima, who arrived on the weekend of October 11th. They were warmly welcomed by the community and participated in the celebration of Brazil's Patron Saint, Our Lady of Aparecida, on October 12th—a time of sharing, prayer, and fellowship.

We were present at the Quitéria Maria de Jesus and Wilson Pereira Schools, with activities aimed at high school students and a group of adults. We believe that school is a fertile space for integral human growth. Given the many challenges young people face today, it is essential to talk about the meaning of life, dreams, and hope. Our aim is to join forces and collaborate with the life projects already being developed in the schools, offering support, reflection, dialogue, and listening.

During the meetings in the classrooms, we were always warmly welcomed by the students, teachers, and administration. We noted a significant presence of young people engaged in the community, like Emanuel, who joined us on occasion. All reflections and sharing were conducted in an ecumenical and open language, valuing dialogue and mutual respect.

In addition to the activities in the schools, during these days we also participated in masses, triduums, and celebrations in the communities, whenever possible—which strengthened the bonds between mission and people. In some celebrations, we had the joy of contributing to the liturgical animation and sharing.

We concluded the week with a special meeting on Sunday the 19th, with the theme "Hey, young person, what are you looking for?" and the motto "A look at the restless heart," inspired by the Gospel of John 1:38. Approximately 36 young people participated, offering a moment of deep reflection. Jesus' question to his disciples invited us to look within, to recognize our searches and concerns. Jesus doesn't ask questions to judge, but to awaken. During the meeting, we also discussed the late Pope Francis' 10 pieces of advice for young people, bringing inspiration and guidance for life. We concluded with the proposal to continue walking together: monthly meetings will be held with young people, always addressing topics of deepening, listening, and spirituality.

Our gratitude to everyone who made this mission possible! We continue to believe in dreams—especially the dreams of youth, where God sows hope and new beginnings. Every young person carries an ideal capable of transforming the world.

Community of the Pastorelle Sisters of Paulo Afonso/BA and

sr. Rosilene de Lima e sr. Adriana Fogaça, sjbp