November 15, 2019
Greetings from the Confidentia Shrine!
Almost a month has gone by since many of us gathered to celebrate the 60th anniversary of this shrine! What a glorious day it was! People came from all over Texas and beyond to give thanks to the Triune God for the gift of Schoenstatt and for the first Schoenstatt Shrine on Texan soil. We prayed, played, enjoyed a delicious meal, and visited with one another just like family. And we truly are a family united in the covenant of love. This was a reality many shared with us during the day as well as in their messages afterwards. We sisters give thanks to all who came and continue coming to the shrine and we thank especially for the countless volunteers and benefactors who made the jubilee an unforgettable blessed feast.
Shortly before the shrine jubilee, the delegates of the league branches gathered in the shadow of the Confidentia Shrine for a weekend of sharing, learning, and discerning. As always, this convention aimed at finding the motto which will guide the Texas Schoenstatt Family throughout the coming year. The delegates took their responsibility seriously. They were inspired by the fact that next year we will commemorate the centennial of the Apostolic League of Schoenstatt and also the centennial of the first women joining Schoenstatt. After a few hours of deliberations in small group discussions and a plenary session, the core team, consisting of a representative from each of the league branches met after an hour of adoration to formulate the motto which reads: Joyful Apostles, Living the Covenant!
Throughout the year we will ponder different aspects of this beautiful motto; so please stay tuned! For now, please don’t forget to honor our founder, Father Joseph Kentenich whose birthday we will celebrate tomorrow with a sign of gratitude for having been the first joyful apostle to live the covenant of love!
Happy Thanksgiving to y’all,
Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary