Sr Rosalina Belo’s First Profession in the IBVM
(August 15, 2023) Timor-Leste is the ‘Courage to Move’ mission of the Australian Province. Rosalina Belo is the first Timorese professed in the IBVM. A number of sisters over the years have contributed to this mission in Timor and Rosalina’s response to God’s call to become a Mary Ward woman, was influenced by the witness of the lives of these sisters and friends of Loreto. We thank them and all those who have been instrumental in Rosalina’s formation and those who will continue to support her in the future.
The excitement began with the arrival of sisters from Manila and Australia, swelling the small IBVM community who live in Ostico. On Monday, 14 August there was the happiness in and around the village, with Church and house preparations including decorating, cleaning, cooking, and choir practice.
The heightened the joy On Tuesday 15 August Morning When Rosalina’s family members arrived with a big cake prepared by her uncle and among them some of her sisters were in their traditional costumes. The church was filled with parishioners. At the entrance of the church the family welcomed us with Tais.
Fr Joaquim Da Silva Sarmento SJ, who recently completed his term as Jesuit Provincial in Timor-Leste, was the main celebrant along with Father Robert. Joaquim was very taken by the Portrait of Mary Ward which included the three main words of our Charism, Freedom, Justice and Sincerity printed in Tetun: Liberidad, Justisa and Sinseridade. He immediately linked these with the three Vows of Chastity, Poverty and Obedience. Rosalina felt deeply the love and support of all the Sisters, surrounded by her family and community.
The Novices, Aspirants, some youth of the parish and the Marist Brothers led the choir, accompanied by Brother Greg. The music was just magnificent. The beauty was the whole community sang with one voice. It was so good.
Rosa’s profession ceremony was very reflective and prayerful. The presence of so many from the community encouraged her. The parishioners were very grateful for the presence of the Loreto sisters and appreciated witnessing the profession of our first Timorese Loreto sister. They also expressed their gratitude by presenting us with the Tais. (The stole of welcome). To remember this special event Rosalina planted a tree in the grounds of the church compound. The celebration continued and all moved to the house to have the delicious meal prepared by the local women of Ostico. There was enough for everyone. Music and dancing added the joy in celebration.
Many thanks to all those who worked tirelessly to enable this to happen, especially Srs. Margaret Mary Flynn, Selvi Adaikalam and Agnes Bhutia IBVM who ‘widened their tents’ to welcome us.
We ask a special blessing on Rosalina Belo IBVM.
