Sr. Henrietta Eziashi belongs to the Franciscan Sisters of Glasgow, Scotland. After ministering in teaching and educational administration, she served two terms as provincial superior in Nigeria, then was elected to the central leadership team of her congregation. Presently, she does pastoral work in Lagos, Nigeria, and does development work for her province.
Jesus Christ gave a parting mandate that would take his disciples all over the world and tells us consecrated women to walk closely with him as we continue his spiritual work of teaching and healing through love. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception continually open themselves to this call of God.
At first profession, we are commissioned through our superior to "live your life with courage … take to all the world a message of peace." Our first duty is to live the Gospel way of life, living an exemplary life that speaks louder than words.
Hospitality is a special hallmark of the service we offer. We respond to the needs of the local church, particularly its pastoral service to the poor, the needy, the vulnerable and marginalized.
In Kenya, we have a shelter at Motobo village called the Family of God Shelter for street boys, ages 8 to 17. We rescue boys, rehabilitate them at the shelter, and reunite them with their families after six months to one year in the and educational. These boys are placed in schools, and the sisters carry out home visitations to determine their progress in school and at home. Our society now realizes that street boys have potential.
We can fully express Christ when we are able to recognize him in others. No culture or religion is beyond the great commission. We may not minister in exactly the same way, but we spread the same message of love and hope.
We're delighted to bring you this excerpt from the monthly feature "The Life," courtesy of our friends at Global Sisters Report. This month, "The Life" asked the panelists to share in what ways they and/or their congregation has followed the command of Jesus "Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations" (MT 28:19). You can read the full article here.
