On 15 August 2022, the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Sr Nadège Biabi a Yombi made her perpetual vows at the Chapel of the Discalced Carmelite Fathers in Yaoundé – Nkolbisson. By choosing to consecrate her life completely, voluntarily and radically to God, she chose the best part, which will never be taken away from her, because in Jesus she will always find peace, joy and true happiness.
The celebration was solemn and beautiful. The Mass was presided over by Bishop Jan Ozga, Ordinary of the Diocese of Doumé Abong-Mbang, and concelebrated by many priests from different communities. Sisters from various congregations, Sr Nadège’s mother and numerous family members were present. Guests came from many corners to accompany Sister at this important moment in her life. Everyone experienced the event in joy and prayerful meditation. Sr Nadège herself looked like a princess of Jesus with a crown of roses on her head. After the act of consecration was pronounced, the choir intoned the Magnificat and Sr Nadège with the other sisters danced to the rhythm of the Marian hymn. No one could contain the joy that animated all the participants in the liturgy.
In everyday life there are moments of joy and sorrow, the two are inseparable. Before the final blessing given by Bishop Jan Ozga, Sr Nadège, who spoke first, expressed her gratitude to the main celebrant of the Eucharist and its concelebrants and to the Provincial Superior, Sr Iwona Nadziejko, who had come all the way from Poland. In thanking her parents, she mentioned her beloved deceased father and, moved with emotion, broke into tears; her tears touched everyone, especially her beloved mother. This moment reminded us how painful it is to be separated from those we love.
The Superior of the Delegature, Sr Weronica Sakowska soothed the heart of her fellow sister by saying that in the Eucharist water and blood are mixed, so life is like that, but sorrow should not dominate joy.
During the celebration, the Lord touched the heart of a young girl who approached Sr Nadège after Mass saying that she would like to become a Pallottine sister.
Sr Marie Messina
Photos: Sr. Fabiana Leitgeber, SAC
