Fidelity to the call of Jesus, the Good Shepherd

SR. MARY AMABILIS OLIVA, RGS

Praise and thanks to our ever-loving Shepherd God, April 14, 2021 was surely a day full of joy, affection and blessings! Our very dear Sr. Mary Amabilis Oliva, RGS celebrated her 98th birthday and Platinum Jubilee of her Religious Profession, 70 years as a Good Shepherd Sister.

Sr. Ama, as we fondly call her, woke up early! She was all smiles when we all greeted her “Happy Birthday!”.  At 6:30 a.m., we, the Sisters from St. Bridget College, Batangas processed to our Prayer Room with flowers, the statue of St. Mary Euphrasia and the lighted Jubilee candle. After the reading of the Gospel for the day, Sr. Ama read her renewal of vows perfectly! We felt relieved after so much excitement and gave her a big round of applause! At 98, that was a big achievement! God is so good!

At 8:00 a.m., the whole community attended an online Eucharistic Celebration with Fr. Francis Gustilo, SDB, Sr Ama’s nephew. The special intention of the mass was for her. Right after the mass was the intimate and joyful virtual gathering of the Oliva clan. Most of them expressed their admiration for Sr. Ama and her impact on their lives. That was very touching!

Good Shepherd Sisters – Batangas Community (standing from left:  Sr. Celeste, Sr. Clare Bagot, Sr. Lilia, Sr. Maryanne, Sr. Ludy, Sr. Tess, Sr. Clare Leones; seated next to Sr. Ama:  Sr. Rose, Sr. Aida V.)

In the afternoon until late at night, Sr. Ama was sound asleep after the grand celebration! A counselee of Sr. Ama whom she rescued from a dangerous situation brought delicious food for lunch for her and for the Sisters.

The fidelity of Sr. Ama in responding to the call of Jesus, the Good Shepherd for 70 years is surely a manifestation of God’s overflowing love. 

Sr. Mary Celeste Yuson, RGS
Local leader – Batangas Community