I Promise…….
St. Jeanne Jugan and her early companions first took a vow of chastity and obedience on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception when they were beginning the Congregation of the Little Sisters of the Poor. This tradition continues today as Little Sisters all around the world renew their vows at Mass on this special feast of our Lady. For the Sisters who have already made their final (perpetual) vows – this day is an opportunity to renew in their hearts the vows they have already made. It is preceded by a day of prayer so that each one can prayerfully reflect on the commitment she’s made to our Lord. Before renewing her consecration, this prayer day allows extra time with the One who chose and called her to give her life for the elderly poor.
In our chapel on December 9th, with the Most Reverend George J. Rassas, Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago presiding, Sr. Gemma de la Croix knelt before Mother Provincial Maria Christine and professed her vows at Mass. She made her First Vows two years ago at our novitiate in Queens Village, New York. By remaking her vows for another 3 years, Sr. Gemma commits to continuing her journey of formation. This journey will take her to our Home in France, where she will learn the culture and the language. Joining Little Sisters from all over the world, she enters her next stage of “schooling”called the “Juniorate”, before moving on to La Tour St. Joseph, our Motherhouse in France, to prepare for her final vows.
We pray for Sr. Gemma as she continues her journey preparing to give herself to the Lord as a Little Sister of the Poor forever.
I Promise