Last Friday, August 27th, we welcomed a new sister into the community! Juliana has been discerning with our community for about two years and on Friday, she officially entered the novitiate, making her a Sister of the Precious Blood!
The liturgical celebration is both unique and familiar. Just as a couple waits at the rear of the church and asks the priest for baptism for their child, Juliana entered at the rear of the chapel and ask for entrance into the community. At that point, she began the liturgy with a touching solo of "Here I am, Lord." Throughout the celebration, she chose those influential in her discernment thus far to participate by reading, singing or helping out in other ways. Her mentor sister, Sr. Joyce, offered a few words of recommendation and president, Sr. Edna officially welcome Juliana to novitiate by placing the CPPS cross necklace on the now Sr. Juliana.
Joy abounded in the chapel and then in the dining room afterwards. Juliana was greeted by the members of the community present and those who were watching on zoom.
As a novice, Juliana will continue her immersion into the life of as a sister. She will have the opportunity to study formally and informally about religious life and Precious Blood spirituality. She will also minister in a few ways alongside our sisters and be offered a "desert day" to open herself in prayer, to hear God's continuous call.
