On Saturday 18 November in Paysandú, we had our centenary celebration of the pontifical approval of the Teresian Association. It was an intimate gathering of people of all ages and circumstances but they all had links to the Association and knew about its charism.
The TA arrived in Paysandú in 1954 and since then it has provided various services: consultancy to the Students' Association, a residence for student teachers, a school, a cultural centre, a commercial office, courses for youth leaders, social projects and individual presence in public education, pastoral work and in the business world. At present, two ACIT members and many friends who identify with the charism remain in the city. The impact on the city has been strong and lasting, as evidenced by the large attendance at the event, the enthusiasm of the greetings and the depth of what was shared.
A group of TA members and friends had travelled from Montevideo to celebrate with the people of Paysandú, a sign of the bonds of friendship that have grown over the years. Particularly moving were the audio and video recordings of TA members who had been in Paysandú and who were here with their greetings and expressions of affection and gratitude. They were applauded by the enthusiastic crowd.
Remembering together
A long chart was displayed that had significant dates related to TA activities in the city and important events at the general TA level. Each person present marked the year and the place in which he or she came into contact with the Association. Then people contributed their memories of the years working together based on the Povedan charism.
Emotions and laughter alternated with the anecdotes told and the sharing of experiences. This was followed by a moment of prayer to ponder on the experience or feeling that had been awakened when each one came into contact with the TA and its charism. We shared this in common and found that it was a moment of great spiritual depth. We recognised the gift that this contact meant in people’s lives and how they were aware of being part of something that had the aim of reaching out to others. .
In the words of Poveda: “We are witnessing a Work of God and everything points to that. We know how we began but we cannot say where we will arrive. God chose us for this work. It is not that we came but that God called us...”.
Songs sung by all in attendance, toasts, dancing and shared joy prolonged the celebration for a long time. Gratitude and the intention to continue with these gatherings and shared journey remained in the air.
Silvia Anesetti & Mary Larrosa, Uruguay.
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