June 2019 was a month of celebrations for the Mercedarian Missionaries of Berriz– the present day “missionary daughters” of Blessed Margarita Maria Maturana.
All twenty-two of the sisters of the Mission of Micronesia (Chuuk, Guam, Saipan, Palau and Pohnpei) gathered at Maturana, Upper Navy Hill in Saipan.
The celebration of an eight-day retreat guided by Bishop Ryan Jimenez, with the theme “Friendship with Jesus” kicked off the summer.
Welcoming off-island sisters, family and friends, extending gratitude and just enjoying together.
Sr. Lourdes Gorostola, General Coordinator, and Sr. Julia Prado, General Councilor, from Rome then arrived to journey with the Sisters for the celebration of the First Mission Assembly under the new organizational structure of the Institute. These decisions were taken during the XVI General Chapter in 2018 at the Motherhouse in Berriz, Spain.
During the Assembly each mission shared their realities, both of their islands and the ministries to which they have been sent. Then, the planning process began for the coming three years. Two other special events were celebrated during the Assembly. First, on June 22, was a MMB Family Fun Day. Part of Blessed Margarita’s legacy is the “family spirit” that she wanted for all her sisters. This, quite naturally, overflows to all those they come in contact with. Dressed in newly received matching blue T-shirts, the sisters welcomed all who came to enjoy the day with them.
Second, on June 29, Bishop Ryan returned to celebrate the Eucharist on the occasion of the Golden Jubilee of Religious Profession of three of the Sisters who renewed their vows that day. Once again family and friends were invited.
Now the celebration of life in mission will continue as renewed in the Spirit the Sisters returned to their mission places this past week.
May Blessed Margarita Maria continue to be both inspiration and intercessor to God on each one’s behalf.
