BVMs and Associates in Ecuador combined three causes for celebration on Nov. 17:

•  The congregation's 175th Jubilee

•  The vow renewal of Saskia Alquinga Cahautijo, BVM

•  The golden jubilee of Sheila O'Brien, BVM.

Before renewing her vows, Saskia read part of a letter from Mary Frances Clarke, "Leave the future to God. I have no fears as long as you are working unitedly that God will aid you as in the past.

She reflected, "In this, God has called us to learn to work as a team and join our shoulders to support one another in the world. All of us are present here opening our hearts to receive the presence of God, calling us to be disciples in the living of the Gospel, without allowing ourselves to be brought low by difficulties and problems that we have in life. Rather, we gather more courage from these experiences in order to continue walking together sharing our lives."

During the Mass, the BVMs present made a devotional renewal of vows and the Associates of their promises. "The children's chorus sang beautiful songs of dedication to the mission of Jesus," said BVM Miguel Conway. "The children did an offertory procession which is customary here among the indigenous people. They offer water, earth, air and nature to the God of all."  A large banner on the ambo read, "Our eternal gratitude to the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary."

She added, "And in the manner of Jesus, we had a delightful meal with our guests after the liturgy. Mary Frances Clarke was very much present with us on the occasion."

For Saskia, "My feelings to have this celebration with the people we work with is so great and marvelous, especially because seven of us are in Ecuador. I had present each of you (all BVMs) because our mission is every place we are following God's voice and needs.  Our core values of freedom, education, charity and justice are present always in our daily journeys and holistic lives."