3 February, 2020

The Vocation Director in the Society’s African Province and the formation team planned for a rally to create an awareness amongst young girls with the quest for religious vocation. The two-day programme focused on the religious life and experiences, religious life with emphasis on SHCJ, different stages of formation, and discernment.

Day 1  Some girls arrived; about 21 of them with 23 Holy Child College students. This was followed by evening prayer; a warm welcome by Sr. Faustian Ejeagu, SHCJ, the Vocation Director, self-introduction then orientation on how the programme will be. Participants had supper after the orientation and then retired to the hostel to rest until the next day.

Day  2  – The day commenced with the holy sacrifice of the Mass by the School Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Ejeh in the school chapel together with the students. While the Mass was going on, about 57 girls arrived from St. Anne Girls Secondary School in Otukpo. After the Mass, the Principal/host, Sr. Lilian Okwechime, SHCJ welcomed all present on behalf of the school and SHCJ Asa community. They had breakfast and the programme began in earnest with “Interested ladies’ concept of Religious Life and Experiences” anchored by Sr. Calista Ahachi, SHCJ.  Some of their responses were as follows:

• Religious life is all about knowing God and doing his will
• It is a way of living an exemplary life and obeying God’s will
• It is a call one need to answer in humility
• Religious are all lovely, kind, understanding and respectful people

Religious Life with emphasis on SHCJ was anchored by Sr. Faustina Ejeagu. Sr. Sarah Egbai, SHCJ spoke on Different stages of formation. Discernment followed led by Sr. Felicia Ezeobi, SHCJ. There was Interactive Session: Questions/Answers anchored by Sr. Margaret Ogunlade, SHCJ. Laura Boiye, Novice SHCJ was also called to share her vocation experience with the young ladies. It was touching and encouraging. Holy Child College students acted drama on “The Call”. Evening prayer followed then watching of video on St. Bakhita.

Day 3 – Commenced with the Holy Mass, and Sr. Faustina Ejeagu  met with some of the interested young ladies. Departure was immediately after the brief meetings.

In all, seven Holy Child Sisters (including Asa community) and 107 interested young ladies from Kogi State, Benue State and Abuja in Nigeria were present at the programme. Thanks to the community leader and the sisters in Asa community for their support.