There are no words to describe the joy in both Sr. Maria Antonia Aranda Diaz and the rest of the IHM community as Maria Antonia pronounced her final vows as an Immaculate Heart of Mary Sister on August 1, the feast of St. Alphonsus. Very fitting since she has been drawn to his spirituality from childhood and IHMs claim St. Alphonus as patron. The liturgy included Mexican flavored music provided by the choir of St. Gabriel parish, Detroit where Antonia had ministered while in the US, and homily, readings and prayers in both Spanish and English. Especially moving was IHM president Mary Fran Gilleran’s speaking the words of the Vow ceremony in both halting but determined Spanish as well as English and Maria Antonia’s pronouncing her vows and speaking to the community in both languages. Besides our awe and gratitude for Tonia’s vocation there was a profound sense that this is a new moment for the community as we open more fully to the gift that our sisters from Puerto Rico and Mexico have to give us. Gracias a Dios!
Watch for videos on the IHM site on YouTube.
Srs. Joan Mumaw (Mission Councilor), Lucy Abbey (Mentor), Maureen Kelly (coworker and friend in Mexico), Maria Antonia Aranda Diaz and Mary Fran Gilleran (IHM President)
It was such a moving and beautiful ceremony! As a latina, it was especially profound to hear the vow ceremony in English and Spanish and to be there and feel the open-heartedness of the IHM Sisters to latino culture.
Thanks, Melba. I truly believe that the Spirit is leading us to learn, appreciate and embrace the cultures of our Mexican and Puerta Rican sisters.
muchas gracias a todas por compartir conmigo la celbracion de mis votos. Que esta experiencia de vida sea un testimonio de esperanza para otras mujeres que quieran arriesgarse a seguir el llamado que Jesus nos hace para descubrir que realmente podemos continuar con su mision redentora en comunidad. Dios las bendiga…
Maria, Que bueno! Te extraño ya. Bendiciones, hermana mia.
It was such an honor to be part of Sister Maria Antonia’s Final Profession. So much love and joy were shared that day!
It was great that you were able to be there for these two big IHM events. Yes, love and joy were palpable. I’m glad you felt that as well.