Our English Delegation has begun the Canonical Visit across its centres in the UK, following the same path already undertaken in Africa, embracing this process as a time of renewal, encounter and discernment in both continents where the Congregation is present.
On 26 March, the Canonical Visit officially began in Addlestone (England), with the presence of 17 sisters, and in Dompoase (Ghana), where a smaller group of four sisters gathered, marking the start of this shared journey of life and Hospitaller mission.
Throughout these days, the icon of the Heart of Jesus has accompanied the visit, presiding over the celebrations and moments of prayer. From this symbol, the visit is being lived as a pilgrimage: a journey from the Heart of Jesus to the heart of each sister and each community, placing in God the desire to receive His light with openness and trust.
Since the beginning of the visit, the sisters have been sharing times of encounter and reflection, addressing both planned themes and those emerging from daily life, all within the guiding theme:
“On a path of revitalisation, returning to the heart.”
Alongside these moments, the visit is also an opportunity to come closer to the reality of each centre, meeting residents, staff and collaborators, and deepening the understanding of the mission as it is lived in different contexts.
Each day has included the celebration of the Eucharist, shared with sisters, professionals and residents. In particular, the celebration of Palm Sunday was lived with great vitality and participation. In Africa, the liturgy was enriched by the rhythm and energy of a choir, while in Addlestone, the use of audiovisual resources also supported a meaningful and joyful celebration.
From Africa, the community in Foso shared their experience of participating in the Eucharist at the centre, presided over by the Vicar of the Diocese, describing it as a beautiful and deeply lived celebration. These moments are being experienced as a time of grace, offering the opportunity to encounter the richness of different realities, with both their gifts and their challenges.
As the Canonical Visit continues, the Delegation entrusts this time to the Heart of God, confident that it will be a moment of renewal, communion and renewed commitment to the Hospitaller mission.
