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SVD Confreres from Chicago Province Join Pink Sisters in New Jersey for a Joyful Jubilee Celebration
Cori Sotti
Our time with the Holy Spirit Adoration Sisters was nothing short of extraordinary. From the very beginning—five months ago when this idea first took shape—they warmly welcomed Father and me, encouraging us as we worked with the New Jersey council to bring the vision to life: a Mass with the Sisters, followed by community fellowship and a reception.
It is rare for so many to gather in one space, and although the Sisters and religious remained separated from the general public, it was a moving sight. I had the honor of leading the music for the liturgy, serving as Father’s music director and business administrator.
Two motor coaches brought participants from Our Lady of Guadalupe in Lakewood, Mother of Mercy in Asbury Park, and St. Ann’s in Browns Mills, all in New Jersey. In preparation for the Sisters’ feast day, we held several meetings with them, and with the approval of their superior, organized a beautiful garden reception. For me, stepping into a cloistered environment was a new experience. On previous occasions, I had only met the Sisters behind the grille. Yet, we quickly became friends, even exchanging numbers on their shared cell phone, and prepared together for this joyful celebration.
On September 8—the founding day of the SVD community—about 200 people filled the Sisters’ small chapel for the Holy Mass. Bishop Christopher Cooke, auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, presided, joined by 13 SVD priests, a deacon from the cathedral, and the Sisters’ chaplain. Father Stephen Michael, SVD, delivered the homily in both English and Spanish, and Father Guilherme Andrino, SVD, their superior, offered the introduction.
We respected the Sisters’ wishes by taking only one group photo, but it was a memorable moment. I felt especially honored to be allowed beyond the grille to visit parts of the convent usually unseen by visitors.
The liturgy and the day itself were deeply moving. As a recessional hymn, we sang Every Beat of My Heart by fellow SVD missionary and composer Edward Petcko. Special vestments designed for the Jubilee, carrying the theme “Witnessing to the Light”, added to the solemnity and beauty.
Throughout the day, one message echoed: many faces, one heart. The celebration was spectacular, and participants continue to express how peaceful and uplifting the day was for them.
We also received warm greetings from Bishop David O’Connell of the Diocese of Trenton and Archbishop Nelson Pérez of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Fr. Adam, the Provincial, expressed joy at the collaboration between the SVD missionaries and the “Pink Sisters,” affirming what we all feel: this partnership is a blessing.
Looking ahead, Fr. Guilherme and many of us hope for more opportunities to collaborate with the Holy Spirit Adoration Sisters, to spread the mission of the SVD, and to share the light of faith with the wider community.
