From March 23 to 29, 2025, twenty-two junior sisters from East-Timor took part in a week-long intensive formation program held in the Canossian community of Baucau. The program’s theme was: “Formation for Integration with Christ Crucified: Living My Identity as a Daughter of Charity, Servant of the Poor in Timor-Leste.”
The formation was facilitated by the Evangelization team, led by Sr. Francelina and Sr. Lúcia Soares. A key highlight was a two-day session on evangelization, during which the junior sisters worked together to develop a catechesis module for the Canossian Oratory, which was followed by practical lessons with children.
The programme continued with a visit to Desagua, a village on the outskirts of Laga, led by Sr. Helena Branca where they organized catechesis and oratory sessions for children, as well as recreational activities. At the same time, other sisters offered a Lenten reflection to prepare the local adults for confession. Another group visited the poor in the village, providing them with food and essential supplies.
After it was the time for recollection, culminating in a joyful pilgrimage to Mary’s Shrine in Fatumaca, a site belonging to the Salesian order. A Mass was celebrated there, during which the Plenary Indulgence was obtained. The program concluded with a day of evaluation. That evening, the Baucau community hosted a fraternal thanksgiving ceremony and farewell party, fostering an atmosphere of unity and celebration.
