From October 31st to November 2nd, in a spirit of faith, gratitude, and hope, the Sisters of Notre Dame in Brazil held their final Interprovincial Planning Meeting prior to the unification of the two Brazilian provinces. Approximately 120 sisters participated in the gathering, which was celebrated under the theme “Pilgrims of Gratitude and Hope in Times of Transition.” The meeting centered on shared goals and action steps to guide the new Our Lady of Guadalupe Province in 2026.
The meeting began with a joyful and fraternal welcome, followed by a formation session led by The Most Reverend Archbishop Jaime Spengler of Porto Alegre, who also serves as president of both the National Conference of Bishops of Brazil (CNBB) and the Latin American and Caribbean Episcopal Council (CELAM). In his presentation, Archbishop Spengler offered insightful reflections on the current context, mission, and challenges of consecrated religious life in today´s world. The day concluded with a Mass presided over by the Archbishop, who invoked the light of the Holy Spirit upon all Sisters gathered and the future Brazilian province.
Rooted in God’s goodness, guided by a spirit of unity, and committed to living their charism, the Sisters devoted time in prayer, dialogue, and discernment as they evaluated the 2025 action plan and created a new one for the newly established Province.
Saturday marked a special celebration of the Congregation’s 175th anniversary, giving thanks for the journey of faith, service, and dedication that continues to inspire new generations of Sisters and lay partners in mission.
On Sunday, All Souls’ Day, the participants of the gathering honored the sisters who have completed their earthly pilgrimage and deepened their sense of communion with those who now rest in eternal peace.
The gathering concluded with a missioning celebration, during which each local community received an image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Placing themselves under her protection, the Sisters move forward united and confident in the guidance of the Holy Spirit, as they embark on this new chapter of their mission in Brazil.
