"I Rejoice in My God"
On the feast of Mary, Mother of the Good Shepherd, I celebrated my Perpetual Profession with deep joy, renewing my covenant with the Lord and pronouncing a "yes forever" to the vocation to which He has called me.
The celebration took place in the Chapel of the Society of St. Paul in Medellín, Colombia, amidst an atmosphere of great joy, fraternity, and thanksgiving. My perpetual vows were received by Sister Ana Verónica Acero, Provincial Superior, and the Eucharist was presided over by Father Danilo Medina, SSP.
In his homily, Father Danilo invited us to contemplate God's mercy—present in the psalm that echoed Mary's canticle—as a God who protects, loves, and always walks with His people. The Gospel reading (Luke 5:1–11) also took on special significance within the context of Bible Month, showing us ordinary people drawing near to Jesus to listen to Him. Furthermore, in Peter’s attitude, we discover a profound vocational experience: that of someone who allows themselves to be reached by the Word, embraces a call, and dares to trust.
This is how I wished to live this moment of my vocational journey: as a trusting response to a call—a story God has been writing little by little through people, encounters, experiences, and so many moments where I could recognize His love and faithfulness. Today, I can only look back and say: Thank You, Lord, for calling me to be a "Pastorelle" and for continuing to walk with me!
I am deeply grateful for the presence and closeness of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd—represented by Sisters Ana, Yamile, and Erika, and junior sisters Mariani, Romini, and Linda—as well as the many members of the Pauline Family: priests, seminarians, Pauline Sisters, Pious Disciples, and Pauline Cooperators. This celebration was also a beautiful experience of the Pauline Family. I also give thanks to my family, friends from the Niño Jesús de Praga Parish, university friends, and all those who accompanied me with their presence, affection, and prayers. Every gesture, act of service, and thoughtful detail made this day a memory I will cherish deeply.
Today, I rejoice with my God. I rejoice with you. And I rejoice in the gift of my vocation.
May Mary, Mother of the Good Shepherd, teach me to treasure this "yes" in my heart and to live it out with faithfulness, joy, and self-giving.
Heartfelt thanks for accompanying me with your prayers!
Sr Leidy Maritza Toro Garcia.
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