15th Day: XXII General Chapter_ Recalling our Salvatorian Foundation at the Chapel of St. Brigida

Today was a significant day for us as we visited the site of our Salvatorian foundation, the Chapel of St. Brigida, co-patron of Europe. Sr. Natanaela Szczurko gave us explation of this place and its historical importance to our Salvatorian family. Here, our founder, Blessed Jordan, along with Lüthen and von Leonhardi, celebrated Mass in the room where St. Brigida passed away. On December 8, 1881, they dedicated themselves to the Apostolic Teaching Society in this very place, where Bless Jordan resided from 1880 to 1882 until he and his collaborators moved to Palazzo Cesi.

Participating in the Holy Eucharist celebrated by Fr. Adam Teneta in this special place was a wonderful gift for us. We prayed for all the members of our Salvatorian family during the Mass. The reflection given on today’s Gospel, Mark 8:27-35, centered around the pivotal question Jesus posed to St. Peter: “Who do you say that I am?” This question is essential for each of us as Christians. Our response cannot stem from mere knowledge about Jesus; we can answer this question only through a personal relationship with Him. Many, including St. Brigida, our beloved founder Blessed Jordan, and numerous saints, have professed that “Jesus is the Son of God” after establishing such a relationship. Fr. Adam emphasized that these individuals serve as examples and intercessors for all of us, encouraging us to grow in faith and deepen our connection with Jesus.

As the visit concluded, the celebrant hoped that this Sunday would be a day of reflection, prayer, and thanksgiving as each visit to this foundational site brings us joy and profound emotions. He expressed his wish that this joy and time we spent in this sacred place may draw us closer to our teacher, Jesus, our God, and our Savior. The liturgy of the day was meaningfully prepared and guided by the Italian province. Later in the day, we explored various sites in different groups, further enriching our experience. We are also grateful for the Bridgettine sisters who welcomed us allowed us to visit this place.