Sisters Celia, Genesis, Maritza, Karinia, Marie Elena and Paola

Visit to Sisters in Esmeraldas, Ecuador

Brother John and Father Stan visited our Trappistine Sisters in Ecuador from August 14-21. They celebrated the Patronal Feast of our Order, the Assumption, with them. On the Feast of Saint Bernard Sister Paola professed her final vows and was solemnly consecrated by the whole community.

The occasion of the visit offered the opportunity to begin in earnest the transition from the leadership of the three foundresses to a leadership led by the native Sisters. The Sisters have been aware of this transition for two years, something that Father Francis set in motion at his visitation in 2005. After speaking privately with most of the Sisters and meeting with the different groups (novices, juniors, native solemn professed and finally the three foundresses) all gave their assent to M. Miren's request to resign and to turn the leadership over to the native Sisters. She and the other foundresses will remain at Esmeraldas to be a support in the transition.

Father Stan left them a series of questions for dialogue and discussion as they discern their way in this transition. He will return with Father Kevin in mid-November to help them pull their discernment together. The election is set for January 17, 2008, the Feast of Saint Anthony, the father of all who follow the monastic way.

Brother John and Father Stan walked the entire length of the new water works project, from the river up to the farm. A long walk, passing under, through and over at least eight barbed wire fences, erected for the cattle. This project will allow the Sisters to keep the cattle on the higher ground of the farm during the dry season. They are more easily stolen when brought down to the river level, as has happened twice in recent years. They are also designating three of the fields on the farm to grow coco, which will increase their ability to be fiscally independent. This water project was implemented through the generosity of five of Mepkin's benefactors.

Please continue to pray for the Sisters as they approach their election. They are such a vibrant community and Father Stan is convinced the transition will be a graced one. Prayer will ensure this will be so in the life of our Sisters.