Franciscan Sister of Christian Charity Sister Mary Ann Spanjers shares on a special Trinity Sunday blessing that our Sisters received at San Xavier Mission, Tucson, Arizona.
On Trinity Sunday at San Xavier Mission, Fr. Steve Barnufsky, OFM our pastor spoke about the meaning of community, he spoke of how Sister Delores has became such an important part of the San Xavier community throughout her 16 years of ministry as 2nd grade teacher, in religious education, school librarian and many parish ministries. The community celebration of the Eucharist included a special blessing of the Sisters with the Tohono O’odham people sending Sister Delores to her new mission assignment. Part of the blessing prayer included “Holy Spirit, gift of God’s mighty power and presence in our midst, shower your gifts upon our Sister Delores, like the gentle rains of the desert, to anoint her and all she needs to serve her Sisters in ways that is life-giving.”
Sister Delores expressed her deep gratitude for the many blessings she has received during her years here. She spoke of how the children reflect the goodness of their parents, grandparents and elders. She experienced an acceptance of the Native Americans who have always made her feel at home. Her gratitude of the Friars, Sisters, teachers, sunsets are all reflections of the Creator, an amazing artist in this world.
The celebration of gratitude continued after Mass in the courtyard with lots of hugs, pictures, food and blessings!
