Final Profession Of Sr. Agnes Musemba Mativo – 16th August 2008
Sr. Agnes Mativo and Sr. Susan DeGuide, Congregational Leadership Team
On the 16th of August 2008 all roads lead to Kathonzweni, to the St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church. This was for the great occasion of the Final Profession of Sr. Agnes Musemba Mativo as a religious Sister of Mercy for the rest of her life. Agnes is the third religious sister of her family. Thus for the family it was another day of thanksgiving and generous giving of their beloved daughter and sister to the Church as a Sister of Mercy.
The celebration of Mass was most colourful. The ceremony was presided over by His Grace, Emeritus Archbishop of Mombasa, Rt. Rev John Njenga. It started promptly and the Sisters of Mercy came in droves to witness to yet another who has heard the call from the inspiration of our foundress, Catherine McAuley. Sr. Susan DeGuide represented the Congregational Leadership team and Sisters Regina and Mary came all the way from Zambia to witness Agnes finally committing her life to the Lord completely.
The colourful song and dance followed by ululations marked a truly African celebration. People came from the surrounding areas to witness the occasion. Agnes is blessed with a cheerful heart and an enthusiastic spirit. Sr. Sabina, sister to Agnes, came from Brazil and confesses that since childhood Agnes related to God in a very unique way and was sensitive to the needs of others, especially the marginalized. It would seem the seeds of mercy were implanted in her by her family from her earliest days and she knows what it is to trust in the providence of God.
Since her First Profession Agnes has served in a number of communities in the Kenyan province and now ministers in the Region of Zambia. She has found a home there and works closely with the people in a spirit of joy.
Archbishop Njenga spoke about community life and the concept of “I am because we are, and because we are therefore I am” and the Gospel value of loving and forgiving each other. Agnes is also participating in the Formators Training Programme for Africa. We look forward to another mercy woman who will pass on the mercy charism with enthusiasm.
Sr. Rose Macharia
