October 3, 2017: “Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings”. 30 September 2017 was a great day to rejoice for us sisters in Bethany community in Tanzania. The dream to have a residence of our own was actualized on this day. Sr Lillis, the assistance Superior General, inaugurated the new convent building. Most Rev Rogath Kimaryo, the Bishop of Same Diocese, blessed the convent building and prayed God’s blessings on all those residing in this home, ‘Bethany Home’
During the blessing of the chapel that followed, the Bishop consecrated the Ambo, the Altar, sacred articles and finally the Tabernacle. The Blessed Sacrament was reserved after the solemn Eucharistic sacrifice offered, marking the graduation day celebration. The procession carrying the Blessed Sacrament after the Eucharistic Sacrifice which was held in the school hall was an ecstatic moment filled with gratitude. Sr Christine Noronha, the Procurator General, Fr Bernard Mwainkwa, Fr Alwyn D’souza, the mission Superior of India-Africa Mission, Fr Hilary, the parish priest of Kifaru Mission of Same diocese, the Ursuline sisters, Grail sisters, Sisters of Mary Immaculate, our sisters from Mwambo community, candidates, parents and students added joy to the day’s excitement. It was indeed a grace filled occasion. The Bishop, who had seen the land which was covered with thorny bushes, was excited to see a lovely convent building, surrounded by lovely trees. The barren land has turned into a land beaming with life. We thank Sr Rose Celine, our Superior General, and all the sisters of the Congregation for the continual support and prayers offered for the fruitfulness of our mission.
Sr Antonette, our superior, deserves all praise for her labour of love to see the convent building completed.