170 Years Since María Antonia París’ “Yes”

For our Congregation, August 27 is a special date: 170 years ago, María Antonia París pronounced her “Yes” to God, beginning a path of consecration, service, and mission that continues to inspire us today.

In her writings, María Antonia describes the joy and depth of that moment: “Thus I made my long-awaited profession on the 27th of August of the same year in the hands of my Prelate [Claret], with indescribable delight to all, and even more joy in my soul, which cannot be expressed. […] My thoughts fixed on the moment of pronouncing the holy vows, the moments seemed like centuries, and although so many significant circumstances accompanied my profession, none was enough to disturb even a little the peace and rest of my soul” (Autobiography, 225).

This “Yes” was not merely a word, but a profound commitment, rooted in faith and total dedication to God. María Antonia faced every difficulty with trust and generosity, aware that living according to the Lord’s will required perseverance and an open heart.

On this day, we renew the commitment of the XVIII General Chapter to care for the missionary vocation in an integral and harmonious way, walking together with one another, following in the footsteps of Christ, our only good, and contributing to the transformation of the world.