On a recent Sunday in Advent, the eight Assumptionist novices came to the center in Brighton, MA for liturgy and the last “Conversations…” of the semester. A very culturally diverse group hailing from Guatemala, Ecuador, India, the Philippines, Mexico and the United States, they were joined by Fr. Richard Lamoureux, A.A., novice master,  Fr. Alex Castro, A.A. and Fr. Mulumba Matsongani, A.A., his assistants.

The conversation began with each young man introducing himself, where he came from and how he came to know the congregation and respond to the call to religious life. Some of the variety of responses included the influence and witness of previously known Assumptionists. Others came to know the community through the Religious of the Assumption. A few of the brothers were attracted to this life because of  a primary hunger to know more about the congregation’s motto, ‘Thy Kingdom Come’ and what that really meant and could mean in their lives. Clearly what has impacted them these first few months is a deep sense of God’s call to daily conversion within the community experience, as they continue their discernment as Augustinians of the Assumption., through prayer, study and communal living.

When asked about some new discoveries and challenges, they mentioned their great diversity of cultures, ages, languages and personalities. On a lighter note, getting used to new foods was an adjustment and being introduced to squirrels and snow for the first time has been part of their welcome to New England.

Clearly the brothers are treasuring this year of grace, a time set apart, learning to harmonize and balance their need for recollection and activity, recognizing their gifts and limitations, experiencing the ‘mystery’ of their call to religious life.

As always, lively interaction and conversation took place throughout their sharing with the center’s community and guests which gave further evidence of their openness, trust, joy, good humor and love for one another.  We pray that as they continue on their journey this year, the Holy Spirit will continue to guide them through the inspiration of St. Augustine and Fr. d’Alzon!