PDDM Ireland- United States of America: On the 30th of August 2022, 62th anniversary of the pontifical approval of our Congregation, Sr. Mary Rio Bella Justiniani Cruz, professed her first vows as a Sister Disciple of the Divine Master.
The celebration of the Eucharist during which the vows were professed was celebrated in the Parish of St. Mary Queen of the Apostles, Fresno, California. It was presided over by the Most Reverend Joseph Brennan, Bishop of Fresno and long-time friend of the Community. Present for the celebration were the Sisters from the local communities, alongside the Delegate Superior Sr. Kathryn Williams, relatives and priest friends of Sr. M. Rio, friends and benefactors of the community, together with members of the Holy Family Institute. The liturgy was embellished under the careful direction of Sr. M. Margaret Tapang, pddm, Mr. Bernie Angeles and the Holy Family Institute Choir, with the children particularly shining bright in their commitment and enthusiasm to making it a special day!
It was the first time and hopefully not the last time for a religious profession to be celebrated in the Parish which bears a patronage dear to us- Queen of the Apostles.
Bishop Brennan took the opportunity to remind the young people of the joy which is found in following Jesus in religious and priestly life, as was clearly seen in the life of Sr. M. Rio and in the biblical motto for her journey: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord.” (Lk 1:46). A simple agape gathering took place at the convent after the ceremony We thank the Divine Master for the beautiful and perseverant ‘Yes’ of Sr. M. Rio to all the marvels He will do in her life.
