Touching with Our Hands the Significance of Presence

Tremp: A Place of Theological History, Simplicity, and Shared Mission

As part of the canonical visit they are carrying out to the Province of Europe, Priscilla Latela, Superior General, and Amilbia Penagos, Prefect of Formation, arrived in Tremp, where they remained from December 15 to 19. Tremp is a cherished place for the Claretian Missionary Sisters, as it was where the Foundress returned upon coming back to Spain from Cuba, accompanied by two companions, after a process of discernment carried out with Claret and Caixal. The foundation in Tremp meant a further consolidation of the Congregation’s foundations, in a spirit of simplicity, poverty, and missionary passion. It has been 166 years of history and of an evangelizing educational presence.

These days in Tremp were intense, marked by fraternal encounters and moments of celebration and reflection. Time was shared with the sisters, the educational community, alumni, and the ecclesial community, in an atmosphere enriched by expressions of welcome, joy, and simplicity. The celebration of the mystery of the Incarnation was at the heart of the festivities, reminding us how God continues to reveal Himself in children, the simple of heart, and the most fragile and vulnerable.

Amid the Christmas activities, time was also devoted to deepening the mission, vision, and values that characterize a Claretian community and educational center. This time of reflection further enriched our commitment, linking the present with the dream of our founders to be one family and one heart, and to collaborate responsibly in the transformation of the Church and the world. It was especially meaningful to meet with the Bishop of the Diocese of Urgell, to engage in dialogue with local institutions, and with the mayor. These encounters confirmed the significance of the Claretian presence in this corner of the world, which has an intercultural face due to significant migration, as well as the great ongoing challenge that God may be known, loved, served, and praised.

We pray that in this time, so meaningful because of the many ways in which God reveals Himself, we may continue to contemplate His presence in silence throughout this journey of canonical visitation.