Port Moresby (Papua New Guinea). On 6 July 2024, at the Shrine of Mary Help of Christians in Port Moresby, Sister Jolanta Malgorzata Kosinska, Daughter of Mary Help of Christians, Animator of Bl. Maria Troncatti Community of Tapo-Vunakanau in Kokopo, of St. Maria D. Mazzarello Province (FIL) celebrated the 25th anniversary of Religious Profession. Sister Jolanta, originally from Poland, has been a missionary in Papua New Guinea for eight years, as well as a year of preparation in the Philippines.
The solemn renewal of the religious vows of Sister Jolanta took place during the Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Fr. Gregorio Bicomong Jr., Salesian of Don Bosco, Superior of the Preprovince Blessed Philip Rinaldi (PGS) and concelebrated by fifteen other priests, with the presence of the Provincial, Sister Teresita Padron, of FMA, friends, benefactors, and young people who animated the celebration with singing and prayer.
In his homily, Fr. Bicomong stressed that anniversary celebrations are a beautiful reminder of two aspects, “God’s grace makes fidelity possible and for this grace we are eternally grateful. We celebrate not to compare lives, but to recognize the unique path that a person has chosen to dedicate oneself to God.” He also recalled that, as highlighted in the Beatitudes, we are all called to holiness and that vows are a strong commitment, a way to enter into a life different from the others. “It is a life that privileges love for the kingdom of God over the fleeting pleasures of the world; a life that reflects the greatest love of all, ‘love one another as I have loved you’, a love that extends to the sacrifice of oneself.”
Commenting on the chosen readings, he said, “The parable of the seeds illustrates it beautifully. The first seed, torn away, represents those who are not ready to receive God’s message. The second seed, which sprouts in good soil, represents those who find true freedom in following God’s will. The third seed, struggling with thorns, represents those who are preoccupied with the cares of the world. Here comes the concept of poverty, understanding that true goods come from God and are destined to be shared. Only God’s love is eternal. It is by His grace that we live, that we fall in love with Jesus. Vows are a lifelong commitment, a spousal promise to God, a stronger bond than anything the world can offer us. If you want to make a difference, the answer is clear, follow Jesus.”
After communion, Sister Jolanta thanked for the gift of life, faith, and vocation. She thanked God for the call to religious life and for the opportunity to serve others. She also expressed her gratitude for the charism of Don Bosco and Mother Mazzarello; for the possibility of being part of a religious family that is all of Mary, and for the last 25 years spent in fidelity, love, and service. In concluding, she expressed her gratitude to the Sisters with whom she shared experiences of family spirit, the Word of God, and the Sacraments.
The prayer ended with thanksgiving to the Virgin Mary for her guidance and support and the request to the Lord for the continued blessing of fidelity so that, when God calls her to contemplate Him face to face, she may be ready and ardent in His love.
Dear Sr. Pam, thank you very much for your encouraging words and for recognizing my daily commitment to the mission. Trusting God’s call I am committed to continue the mission with our dear people, and I share your hope that FMA religious vocations among young girls and ladies will flourish also in Papua New Guinea. Thank you once again for your kind words and for your continued support.
Thank you for your daily faithfulness. Happy continuation of the mission with our dear people Sr Jolanta. And may religious vocations among the young girls and ladies grow strong especially in our Institute.
Tenk yu stret.