The verse of Psalm 91: "In old age you will continue to bear fruit (v. 15) is good news, a real Gospel, which we can proclaim to all our brothers and sisters. This goes against the grain of what the world thinks of this age of life".
These words of Pope Francis on "the second World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly", can serve to present what our elderly Sisters are living in the Province of Spain, in the Communities of Riofrío (Segovia), Collado Mediano (Madrid) and El Olivar (Málaga).
We remember what our Rule of Life tells us: "The elderly Sisters should be shown special affection. Through their long experience of God's merciful love, their presence can bring serenity and hope to the whole community". (RL 57)
Pope Francis: "A long life - so Scripture teaches - is a blessing, and the elderly are living signs of the goodness of God who grants life in abundance. It is our contribution to "the revolution of tenderness", a spiritual and peaceful revolution. Let us learn to use more and more the most valuable and the most appropriate instrument: prayer. Let us transform ourselves a little bit into poets of prayer: let us re-appropriate what the Word of God teaches us. Our Communities of elderly Sisters pray for the Congregation, the Province and for all the intentions entrusted to them.
And finally in our Rule of Life: "Whatever their role…whatever their age or health or gifts, the Sisters are apostles by vocation". (RL 75)
It is from here that we want to present what our elderly Sisters live and do in their Communities. Some of the workshops are carried out with the help of lay staff, other Sisters and former students. The proceeds from the sale of the handicrafts are donated to the missions.
"Love never says enough" and the passion for the Kingdom is always present.
Thank you!