On December 8, 2024, the Teresian Association Japan celebrated in Nagoya the closing of the 100th Pontifical Approval of the TA and commemorated the 65th year of the TA’s mission presence in Japan with a Thanksgiving Mass at Nanzan Catholic Church.
As it was the 2nd Sunday of Advent, the atmosphere was solemn yet filled with anticipation, with some 300 parishioners in attendance. A portrait of Saint Pedro Poveda was displayed prominently at the altar.
The Eucharist was presided by the Parish Priest, Rev Fr. Filadelfi Pavol, SVD, with two other concelebrants. His homily reflected on the Gospel while also paying tribute to the Founder of the Teresian Association, describing its mission and its impact in Japan. “We who are baptized are called to be ‘messengers’, as evangelizers in sharing the faith.” He specially mentioned Cora Viado, a TA member, who collaborates in the Church as lector and as facilitator of Middle school students.
After the mass, around 60 invited guests and friends proceeded to the Marian Hall for a short program consisting of a brief introduction of the TA members in Japan and their present mission involvements and a presentation on the Teresian Association.
The program was followed by refreshments where Fr. Bob Reimer, SVD, delivered a touching toast, recalling the pioneering TA members, Caridad Nuñez and Sarrasin Sensei (referring to Josefa Sarrasin), reflecting on the positive influence they had on their students. The impact of the TA members, especially those who had lived in Maria House, was evident as those present shared their stories.
Warm atmosphere
The atmosphere of the gathering was warm and welcoming, like a grand reunion. “I really like the vibes, it’s so positive, I like this group” commented a colleague who has come for the first time. Many expressed feelings of joy and nostalgia, with some reconnecting with friends, colleagues and or mentors after nearly 30 years.
As the guests left the hall, they were given a simple token of the event, a magnetic card with the prayer of Fr. Poveda imprinted in English and Japanese, together with the prayer-cards of St. Pedro Poveda, Bl. Victoria Diez, Ven. Elisa Giambeluca, and Ven. Josefa Segovia.
The spirit of gratitude, joy, warmth, friendship and fellowship was palpable as people move around greeting everyone, sharing memories and retelling stories of their experience with TA members and contact with the TA. The atmosphere was one of reunion and homecoming, renewing old bonds and initiating new ones.
Indeed, the celebration was a beautiful testament to the enduring impact of the TA charism, fostering a sense of community, fellowship and family in the lives of those it has touched, that withstands the passage of time.
TA Team (Japan).
Published in News