December 3 marked the beginning of Advent, but it also marked a new beginning for me as I was formally received into the Pre-Novitiate formation program for the Congregation of Divine Providence. Advent has always been a special liturgical season for me, so it was very meaningful that the entrance ceremony was held on that particular day. Just as Advent is a time of hopeful anticipation for Christians, I find that my time as a Pre-Novice will hold the same sentiment for me- -hopeful anticipation for what is to come as I deepen my relationship with this congregation and with our Provident God.

The first time I visited our Sisters, I knew that the CDPs were different from any other place I had visited, and that there was something special about this place. It always felt as natural and “at home” to me as being with my family. As I learned more about the mission of the CDP, the charism of Providence, and the inspiring things our Sisters have done throughout our history, I felt deep in my soul that this is where I belonged. I have deep gratitude that God has invited me to this wonderful place.

One particularly profound moment for me in my time here thus far was at our General Chapter last January. When the final version of our Chapter Statement came out, I was moved to tears because I knew thatI had waited my whole life for a mission that I fully believed in and to which I wanted to give my life. A year later, I still believe this, and I look forward to discovering the many different ways to bring this statement to life “with boundless confidence in God’s Providence…”

As I move forward in formation, I am very eager to immerse myself in the history, charism, and life of the Congregation of Divine Providence. I am so very grateful for the many ways I am nurtured, challenged, and guided along the way by our Sisters. With hopeful anticipation, I look forward to all that is to come!

 

–Melissa Cessac, Pre-Novice

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