Sr. Marie Gertrude, who served among the people in Antofagasta, Chile, for several years, recently had the privilege of attending the tenth anniversary of the Chilean associates. 

The tenth anniversary celebration of the associates in Antofagasta was indeed a rich experience for me.  To touch the Chilean soil was a grace and I am grateful.  I am grateful, too, for my traveling companion, Sr. Pat Moons.

The associates prepared a wonderful celebration.  An exhibition of panels depicting their lives and ministries showed both their understanding--and living out of--mission and their deep love for the Congregation, their understanding of their commitment, their devotion to the Spirit and to Mary, our Mother.  Their attention to the poor and sick is very inspiring.  A Mass held in the local neighborhood chapel was beautiful and enriched with music and sharing by several associates.  The first four associates, who made their covenants in 1999, spoke movingly of how they live the DHS spirituality in their families, neighborhoods, and parishes.

The associates are alive and making our charism live and grow in beautiful Antofagasta!

Sr. Marie Gertrude LALIBERTE, DHS, HARTFORD