Following the starlight...

"The novitiate is the most important time of initiation

into our life consecrated for the mission..."

(RdV 69)

On the afternoon of January 5, 2026, the eve of the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord, we: Amelia Costantino, Filomena Alcino, Carmelita Remigio, Lucia Lemos, Rocio Pérez, and Wilmary Romero, gave thanks to God for our entry into the novitiate.

This date was very important for us. Joy and gratitude were the feelings that accompanied us.

The celebration was presided over by Sister Aminta Sarmiento, Superior General, who invited us to "follow the light of the star... which is the grace of God poured into our hearts, guiding us to recognize and welcome Jesus the Good Shepherd into our lives and to adore Him with all our hearts, offering Him our mind, will, and heart so that He may live in us."

We felt the responsibility and commitment we are called to live, with God's help, more deeply: in prayer, silence, and fraternal sharing in the novitiate community.

The morning meeting with Mother Celina, who was unable to attend the novitiate entrance ceremony due to health reasons, was also very meaningful. She welcomed us with great joy and emotion, and, encouraging us with great affection, said: "I hope you experience this moment as a time of grace; try to do it better, to give a free and conscious yes." After this, she gave us a crucifix.

We sincerely thank you for all of your prayers and trust. In particular, we thank the sisters of the General Government, the Motherhouse, the Provincial Governments of Italy, the Italian-Latin American-Myanmar (AL) and the Spanish-speaking Provinces, and the Novitiate community.

May the Good Shepherd accompany us and bless us on our journey.

The novices from the little house in Nazareth

(Unique Novitiate)