On June 3rd, 2007, in Saint Peter's Square in Rome, Pope Benedict XVI proclaimed the sainthood of Marie Eugenie of Jesus. In his homily, he said: “May the example of the new saint help you to center your spiritual life on Christ and on the mystery of the Incarnation, and may it lead you to a determined and courageous apostolic commitment, passing on Gospel values within today’s culture, particularly through the education of the young. May young people not be afraid to embrace moral and spiritual values, and to live them out with patience and fidelity; thus, they will shape their personality and prepare for their future.”
We will always remember that heaven wept with joy: this abundant rain accompanied us throughout the canonization.
The celebration in the Paul VI Hall began with a few words from the Superior General and her counsellors:
Diana: “The heart of the Assumption lies at the heart of the Church.” Long live Marie Eugenie! Long live!
Katrin: “I’m sure Marie Eugenie would have loved to be with us. She had such a big heart that she used to say, the world is too small for my love.”
Maria Emmanuel: “We are a great family, and we must continue together on this path of spirituality.”
Brigitte: “Assumption, together we rejoice in the holiness of Marie Eugenie — a holiness that finds its fullness in each one of us.”
Martine: “The spirit of the daughters of the Church is a spirit of joy.”
We continue to give thanks to the Lord for the life of Risa Bondoc, and on this anniversary, we ask Saint Marie Eugenie to continue protecting and guiding her on her journey.
May this celebration inspire the Assumption Family to work joyfully for the extension of God’s Kingdom in the greatest fullness possible.