The Region Day of the Ursuline Franciscan Sisters of the European Region was celebrated with joy, gratitude, and a deep sense of sisterhood on 19 September 2026 at the Urban-Stein Convent in Essen-Steele, Germany.
The Region Day of the Ursuline Franciscan Sisters of the European Region was celebrated with joy, gratitude, and a deep sense of sisterhood on 19 September 2026 at the Urban-Stein Convent in Essen-Steele, Germany. Inspired by the theme “Walking in Francis’s Way,” the celebration was a meaningful opportunity to thank God for His blessings, cherish our journey as a Region, and renew our commitment to the spirit and values of our Ursuline Franciscan vocation.
The day began with a solemn Eucharistic Celebration, officiated by Rev. Fr Jason Pais, OFM Cap. United around the altar as one family, we thanked God for His abundant blessings upon our European Region and for the precious gift of our vocation. The Eucharist reminded us that, strengthened by Christ, we are called to journey together in faith, love, and service.
Following the Holy Mass, we gathered in the hall in an atmosphere of warmth and fraternity. The programme commenced with the Region Song, “The Smallest Seed,” followed by words of welcome, cake cutting, and refreshments. The presence of Rev. Sr Dr. Hilda Rita Lobo, UFS, as the honored chief guest added grace and significance to the occasion.
A deeply touching moment was the recognition of the Sisters who have completed more than 30 years of service in the Region. Through brief reflections on their lives and missionary journeys, we recalled their faith, dedication, sacrifices, and generous commitment to their mission in Europe. Their stories became inspiring testimonies of God’s grace and faithful service. As an expression of love and gratitude, the Regional Team honored each Sister with a shawl, garland, and fruit basket, acknowledging the many lives touched by their years of dedicated ministry.
The distribution of prizes to the winners of various competitions brought further joy and appreciation, celebrating the Sisters’ creativity, enthusiasm, and wholehearted participation. The gathering then came alive with a colorful cultural programme, through which the Sisters expressed God’s love, the richness of diversity, and the joy of belonging to one Franciscan family through music, dance, and creative expressions.
A particularly moving presentation was a tableau depicting the life of St. Francis of Assisi, our Patron Saint. His encounter with Christ and receiving of the stigmata reflected his profound love for the Crucified Lord and his complete surrender to God.
The day concluded with the singing of the Congregational Anthem, echoing the unity, identity, and mission that bind us together as one family. The Region Day was far more than a festive gathering; it was a celebration of vocation, a thanksgiving for faithful service, a tribute to our Franciscan heritage, and a renewal of our journey together.
As we continue to walk in Francis’s way, may the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi guide our steps, deepen our love for Christ and one another, and inspire us to serve with humble hearts, generous hands, joyful spirits, and unwavering faith. May the light kindled at the feet of St. Francis continue to shine through each of us, wherever the Lord calls us to be His instruments of love and peace.
