The Sisters of the Holy Spirit Congregation are rejoicing over the canonization of their founder, Blessed Elena Guerra, who was elevated to sainthood in October 2024. This momentous occasion was celebrated in Cyeza Parish, Kabgayi Diocese, beginning with a solemn Eucharistic Mass.
Eucharistic celebration and distinguished attendance
The Mass, presided over by Bishop Balthazar Ntivuguruzwa of Kabgayi, was concelebrated by a host of bishops, including Bishop Vincent Harolimana of Ruhengeri, Bishop Papias Musengamana of Byumba, Bishop Célestin Hakizimana of Gikongoro, Bishop Smaragde Mbonyintege (emeritus), and Bishop Kizito Bahujimihigo (emeritus).
Numerous priests, members of religious congregations, and lay Christians also graced the event.
The celebrations included the profession of perpetual vows by three sisters: Sister Epiphanie Mukamana from Musaza Parish, Kibungo Diocese; Sister Flavia Nsengimana Uwamahoro from Muhura Parish, Byumba Diocese; and Sister Marie Odette Mukantwari from Rambura Parish, Nyundo Diocese.
Bishop Balthazar’s Homily: A Message for the Times
In his homily, Bishop Balthazar Ntivuguruzwa drew parallels between the challenges of Blessed Elena Guerra’s era and those of today.
He noted that her time was marked by rising secularism, intellectual arrogance, and global conflict—a reality mirrored by the current erosion of moral values and the prevalence of materialism.
“The challenges of Blessed Elena Guerra’s time resonate deeply with our own,” he said. “Our world is overshadowed by ideologies that undermine faith, distort morality, and challenge the values that have nurtured us. We face relentless wars and discord. Just as God gifted the world with Elena Guerra, filled with the love of the Holy Spirit, today we too need the Holy Spirit’s light to dispel this darkness.”
He emphasized the ongoing need for a “perpetual Pentecost,” urging the Church to continually listen to the Holy Spirit and fulfill its mission as intended by Christ.
A Call to the newly professed sisters
Addressing the sisters who made their perpetual vows, Bishop Balthazar highlighted the gravity of their commitment. “The word ‘perpetual’ carries immense weight, especially in an era where permanence is rare,” he said. “You have chosen to dedicate your lives entirely to the Holy Spirit. May the good work God has begun in you be brought to completion.”
He encouraged them to embody humility, self-denial, and resilience in the face of contemporary challenges, such as the misuse of technology, consumerism, and the temptation to abandon their vows.
“May you be guided by the Holy Spirit, ensuring your commitment remains steadfast despite these modern threats,” he concluded.
About Saint Elena Guerra and the Congregation
Saint Elena Guerra, founder of the Sisters of the Holy Spirit Congregation (Soeurs Oblates du St. Esprit), was born on June 23, 1835, in Lucca, Italy, and passed away on Holy Saturday, June 11, 1914. Her remains are enshrined in the Church of Saint Augustine in Lucca.
She was beatified on April 26, 1959, by Pope John XXIII and canonized on October 20, 2024, by Pope Francis. The Church celebrates her feast day annually on May 23.
Founded in 1882, the congregation gained diocesan recognition and later universal approval in 1911.
The Sisters of the Holy Spirit arrived in Rwanda in August 1969 and now serve in six dioceses: Kabgayi, Byumba, Butare, Nyundo, Gikongoro, and Kigali.
Mission and impact
The congregation is dedicated to promoting devotion to the Holy Spirit, nurturing faith, and fostering love for God.
Their ministries include education, healthcare, pastoral teachings, and spiritual retreats, all aimed at drawing people closer to God. Globally, the congregation operates in seven countries: Canada, Italy, the Philippines, Vietnam, Rwanda, Cameroon, and Ghana.
Src: KINYAMATEKA