At the end of August 2025 – Christiane RANNOU, general moderator, Phillys VIENS, regional moderator for the Americas, and I, Giovanna, regional moderator for Europe -, are meeting in Putnam, Connecticut, USA, for the DHS, Secular Branch International Council.
Our working days are intense and rich with each other’s experiences, but we feel the need
for a break… This afternoon, we are invited to a Spiritual Family gathering at the Centre of the Daughters of the Holy Spirit in Putnam. There we meet members of the three Branches – Sisters, Secular Branch, Associates – as well as Ann ALMODOVAR, Superior General of the Congregation.
Joy is evident on everyone’s faces, the embraces are warm, and each person makes an effort to say a few words in French or English to welcome the other with fraternity.
The leaders of the DHS Branches give us information about their respective branches, and then we are offered refreshments.
The room was once again filled with the initial euphoria. We resumed our discussions in English and French, which was not always academic, but… we understood each other! When the Branches meet, they are happy to form a family and share a little of what makes it up.
At the end of the afternoon, everyone left with a bouquet of the three DHS “Branches” n their hearts and prayers!
Giovanna COMMISSIONE, Published on 29 August 2025
