The Sisters of Tokyo and Hayama came together for a heartfelt community encounter with Sr. Graciela, our General Superior, and Sr. Emelinda, General Counselor, a moment of communion and shared mission. It was a privileged opportunity to deepen their sense of belonging to the Body of the Congregation, especially during the cherished “sobremesa” conversations, where she shared stories of life and mission from the different countries she had recently visited. These exchanges became windows into the wider horizons of the Congregation, strengthening bonds of fraternity and mission across cultures and communities.

The gathering was marked by simple yet joyful moments—laughter, listening, and the quiet joy of being together as sisters. A highlight of the visit was the trip to Akenohoshi Kindergarten, where the Sisters witnessed the vitality of the apostolic mission in Japan, expressed in the care and formation of the youngest members of society.

After the encounter, the community assembled in the chapel for a solemn Acción de Gracias, lifting their hearts in thanksgiving to the Lord for the many gifts received during those days. In a spirit of gratitude, simple tokens were offered, symbols of affection and remembrance that carried the warmth of sisterly love.

As the visit ended, the farewell at Haneda Airport was not seen as an ending, but as a promise of future encounters. The goodbye was imbued with hope—an assurance that this journey back to Rome would be only the beginning of another visit, another chapter in the ongoing story of communion and mission.