On July 26, 2019, in Nigeria, we, Lilian, Paulina, Racheal and Hope, from different states, tribes, origins and cultures, were admitted as novices in the Congregation of the Daughters of the Holy Spirit.

We were warmly welcomed by the Vice-Provincial, Sister Anthonia Ayeni, who, in her words of welcome, expressed her joy to receive us in the Family of the Daughters of the Holy Spirit.

In her reflection from Psalm 139 chosen for this day, she emphasized that the Lord has kept us until now because He loves us and wants us to work with him. Our baptismal promises have been remembered and we have been encouraged to live them fully as we begin this new stage of our lives. She entrusted us to Mary, our Mother, and to the Holy Spirit, our Advocate, to accompany us throughout our formative years.

Then we presented our symbol "the mustard seed" which is known to be the smallest of all the seeds but which, once sown, becomes the largest of all the shrubs and allows all the birds of the sky to be able to find refuge on its branches. Thus we identify with the image of the mustard seed: …

There can not be growth without loss: different experiences have already allowed us to water, to prune and have helped us grow since we began our journey. We pray that grace will allow us to be docile to the action of the Spirit in our lives.

After presenting our symbol and haven prayed, the Vice-Provincial, Sr. Anthonia Ayeni, gave us a cross and the Rule of Life. It is with great joy that we were welcomed into the DHS Family as novices. It is difficult for us to express all the joy that we feel in the depths of our being as we take this step of Faith. We thank God for making this day a reality. We all sang the "Magnificat" and danced happily as we made our way to the community hall where a light-refreshment was served.

We thank all the Daughters of the Holy Spirit and especially the General Council and Council of the Vice-Province of Nigeria for accepting us in this Family of God.

Lilian Mbagwu, Paulina Musa, Rachael Omoloso et Hope Shado – 1ère année de noviciat FSE. Publié le 29 juillet 2019.

Source: Our DHS international website,  https://www.fillesstesprit.org/site/1649.html