International Vocation Prayer 25th May 2024
FEAST OF ST. MADELEINE SOPHIE BARAT
Today the readings on the Feast Day of St Madeleine Sophie offer us a reflection on the values and virtues that she embodied and the essence of her mission within the Society of the Sacred Heart. The readings prompt each RSCJ to deepen her understanding of her vocation as women called to live out the charism of St. Madeleine Sophie Barat. It invites us to embody the virtues of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, to embrace inclusivity and hospitality, and to support one another in their shared mission of spreading God’s love and truth in the world. Simply, we are called to LOVE.
St Paul in his letter to the Colossians beautifully outlines the virtues that St. Madeleine Sophie Barat cherished and instilled in her followers. Her life was a testament to these virtues, as she exemplified compassion and kindness towards all, showing humility in her service, gentleness in her interactions, and patience in her endeavors to educate and uplift others.
The Psalmist echoes a universal call to worship and praise, emphasizing God’s steadfast love and faithfulness. This inclusivity mirrors St. Madeleine Sophie Barat’s vision of embracing diversity and welcoming people from all backgrounds into the love of God. She believed in the universal mission of the Society of the Sacred Heart, inviting people of all backgrounds to experience the transformative power of God’s love.
In the Gospel of John, we meet Jesus praying for the protection, unity, and sanctification of his disciples. This prayer for protection, unity, and sanctification reflects St. Madeleine Sophie Barat’s deep concern for the spiritual well-being of her community and her commitment to fostering unity and holiness among its members. She understood the challenges and temptations faced by those seeking to live a life of faith and sought divine guidance and protection for them.
Questions for Reflections
- How can we live these virtues more intentionally in daily life and ministry as an RSCJ?
- How can we foster a spirit of inclusivity and hospitality within our communities and ministries?
- How can RSCJ support and mentor each other in their vocational journey, fostering a sense of unity and mutual encouragement?
As we reflect and pray for vocation today, we are reminded of the transformative power of living a life grounded in faith, love, and service. We are encouraged to continue Sophie’s mission of spreading God’s love and truth in our own lives and communities. “Madeleine Sophie wanted each person to become aware of truth, of love and of freedom. Educating for compassion, awakening compassion in children, adolescents and adults: this is our duty and our mission.” – Helen McLaughlan, RSCJ
By Rose Gichangi, RSCJ
Province of UGK
ivc_reflection_for_25_may_2024-2.pdf
priere_pour_les_vocations_05.2024_fra-2.pdf
ivc_reflexion_para_mayo_25-2024_espanol-2.pdf
Section |International News|Vocation & Youth Ministry
Province |Uganda/Kenya
Tags |Oración por las Vocaciones|prayer for vocations|prière pour les vocations