Memory, Journey, Dream and Commitment of the CEBs of Brazil

On November 19th, 20th, and 21st, 2025, we, the Shepherdess Sisters of the Vitória/ES community, participated in the Prayerful Triduum celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Inter-Ecclesial Base Encounters, which had as its general theme: MEMORY, JOURNEY, DREAM AND COMMITMENT OF THE CEBs OF BRAZIL. The Archdiocese of Vitória encouraged all communities to experience this triduum, which culminated in the celebration at the Penha Convent on November 22nd, 2025.

In the presentation of the Triduum Booklet, the Liturgy Working Group of the Expanded National CEBs (Basic Ecclesial Communities) brought three prayerful moments to the regional groups, with the objective of thanking God for the 15 inter-ecclesial meetings held; for the articulation of the Basic Ecclesial Communities throughout Brazil, with the participation of brothers and sisters from the Latin American continent. It was also emphasized that these meetings have planted a theological legacy that needs to be safeguarded as a treasure of the journey as the Church, the People of God.

"The Inter-ecclesial Meetings of the CEBs are a theological and pastoral patrimony of the Church in Brazil. Since the first one, in 1975 (Vitória/ES), various dioceses have gathered to exchange experiences and reflect on theological and pastoral aspects of the CEBs' journey." (doc. 92-CNBB).

During these three prayerful moments, the communities had the opportunity to reflect on their journey, share their achievements, enrich their faith, deepen their knowledge as a Church, and discuss what they still need to grow in order to truly witness to the Risen Christ, who is always present, inspiring them to be a Church on the move, a Pilgrim Church, and a Church of Hope.

Here at the Parish of Saint Joseph – Maruípe, we, the Shepherdess Sisters, participated in these three prayerful moments, together with the Our Lady of Perpetual Help community. The meetings were very well prepared and had a good facilitator.

During the Celebration, at the feet of Our Lady of Penha and with the presence of the Image of Our Lady of Victory, the facilitator coordinated the various symbolic gestures of the entire journey undertaken by the Basic Ecclesial Communities (CEBs). This celebratory day for the Archdiocese began with meetings in the communities, culminating in the final pilgrimage of the Archdiocesan Jubilee Year, an occasion in which the people were invited to review their journey, experience love, and celebrate commitments to the Lord, for this is the new way of being Church—CEBs (Basic Ecclesial Communities).

Sr. Lusineide Cardoso de Melo, sjbp