Haledon (United States). On 26 and 27 October 2024, the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians with Temporary vows from Saint Joseph Province of the United States East and Canada (SEC) experienced a formation meeting at Mary Help of Christians House in North Haledon, New Jersey, animated by Sister Lolia Neli, collaborator of the Youth Ministry Sector of the FMA Institute.
Sister Lolia accompanied the young FMA in deepening the charismatic roots of catechesis and reflect on their personal journey of faith and vocation. In small groups, they then shared their experiences of community life and mission in the various stages of their journey as FMA, recognizing the ‘ups and downs’ of professed life, in the transition to new communities and different missions and in preparation for perpetual vows.
The Sisters also shared their reflections on their experience of God in this particular moment of their journey, recognizing the Lord as guide, spouse, and support of their own vocation and mission in daily life. They also recognized the presence of God in the Sisters of the community.
Before joining them for the Holy Mass at St Joseph’s Provincial House in Haledon, the young FMA interviewed the elderly sisters of the Province. From these short interviews, they gathered great wisdom and were edified by their testimony of faithfulness. The Sisters shared that being a good FMA means letting Christ work within, without being preoccupied about their own perfection. “We must stand close to Jesus in the Eucharist and let ourselves be guided by Him.” A Sister shared that life is what we do with it, accepting even the difficult moments and offering them for the salvation of souls.
They also spoke of the people who have influenced their lives, from family members to parish priests, animators and community leaders. Each of these people guided and supported them on the way and were witnesses of faith for them.
On Sunday, Sister Lolia shared with the temporary professed the activities at the Institute level. It was interesting to learn about the practical ways in which the Institute responds to the needs of young people and networks with other members of the Salesian Family.
The young FMA opened both days with a sharing on different passages of the Gospel. It was an opportunity to grow and deepen the relationship with Christ in the Scriptures as they continue to walk together.
They spent a wonderful weekend together, where they could deepen their identity as FMA and strengthen their relationship with Christ and the Sisters. All returned home renewed and reinvigorated, to continue living in fidelity to the Charism, making the catechism dynamic, current, and authentic for the young people of today.
