Support for Contemplative Religious in Colombia
The order of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary was founded in Spain in the 15th century. Today, its work is focused mainly in Latin America, while most of its convents in Europe are found in Spain. But there are also other foundations, in India and Africa.
The Conceptionists, as the sisters of the order are known, live a contemplative lifestyle of silence and prayer.
Their convent in Ipiales, in southwest Colombia, was founded in 1970. Two years prior, in 1968, two sisters in another convent, in Pasto, wanted to establish a convent in Ipiales, which is close to the frontier with Ecuador. (They wanted this independently.) In June of that year, they each confided this wish to the abbess, and it happened that the abbess had a particular devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and June is the month of special devotion to the Sacred Heart. So she agreed, on condition that the new convent would be dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
When the first sisters arrived in 1970, they were joyfully welcomed by the people. On the day of the dedication ceremony, the bishop described the new convent as the “beating heart” of his diocese. And indeed, the convent has had a marvelous impact on the diocese’s faithful.
At present, there are 13 professed sisters living in the convent, and several other young women who would like to join them. The sisters live a very modest life, supporting themselves with handmade crafts and ornaments. But this income barely covers the everyday needs of the convent. And while the local faithful love the sisters and frequently bring them food, including produce, there is little to spare for the electricity, water, telephone, and other basic necessities. And then there are always the unexpected expenditures, such as repairs and essential medical treatment.
We are offering $11,322 to support the 13 religious, so that once again, they can manage to make ends meet. They thank you for your support and are praying for you all!
214-06-39
