Integrating communities

At the end of June, a month when we celebrate many saints, we commemorate the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul on June 29th. We, the Pastorinha Sisters, venerate these saints as our protectors and models of holiness, and as inspirations for our pastoral mission.

Our religious community is part of the Santa Teresinha Parish in Sant’Ana do Livramento, RS. This week, we experienced several moments of community bonding.

On June 25, the Pauline Cooperators group gathered to celebrate Pauline Cooperator Day. The meeting was lovingly prepared by the cooperators, who helped the group and the sisters reflect on the characteristics of Peter and Paul. We reflected deeply on our mission—following Saint Paul’s example of working in a network and in communion—and on forming collaborators for the mission. The gathering concluded with a social time, made possible by everyone sharing what they had brought.

On Saturday, June 27, there was a joyful gathering of youth from Sant’Ana do Livramento, uniting the city’s three parishes—Sant’Ana, Nossa Senhora do Rosário, and Santa Teresinha—to foster connection among the young people, helping them encounter Christ and celebrate their faith. That day, a Youth Mass was celebrated at 6:00 PM at Nossa Senhora do Rosário Parish by the parish priest, Fr. Roque Bisognin, OSFS. The liturgy was prepared and led by the city's parish youth groups; children from the catechism program also participated enthusiastically, getting involved in the celebration while dressed as the "June Saints." After Mass, a *Festa Junina* (June Festival) took place, featuring games, prizes, and socializing. We ended the gathering around a bonfire—a traditional symbol of the season—praying and singing, thanking the God of Life for this moment and for guiding us daily in His love.

On Sunday, June 28, the communities of Santa Teresinha Parish came together for their own *Festa Junina*. Each community, as well as some pastoral groups, took charge of a food or game stall. There was great participation and fun for both children and adults alike. During the celebration, the “Rosas de Ouro” dance group—comprising children and adolescents who are part of this social project—gave a performance.

We thank God for these events that enlivened our celebration in honor of the Holy Apostles. May we, guided by God’s grace, always work in communion and unity with the Church’s shepherds and the People of God.

Sr. Ana Paula Salton, sjbp