MARIE ELISABETH IDES, RJM, 1954-2018
The religious of the USA-Haiti Province join RJM and friends throughout the world in mourning the death of our dear Sister Elisabeth Ides, and in gratitude for the gift she has been to us. R.I.P.
BICENTENARY YEAR ARTICLE SERIES
Below is an excerpt from the next article in the Bicentenary Year series. The complete article is attached to the email accompanying this Bridges.
A REFLECTION ON THE PERSON OF CLAUDINE AND HER CHARISM IN THE MIDST OF VIOLENCE AND PERSECUTION
By Irene Stephen, RJM (Province of Pakistan)
“Claudine’s religious vocation was born in the midst of war, violence and persecution. My religious vocation emerged in a country where violence, in the name of religion, is an acceptable and commendable fact. Violence and persecution did not make Claudine bitter. She generously responded to God’s call by saying “yes” with full conviction. I answered God’s call in a country which is a hub of religious fundamentalism and extremism. Here Christians, other minorities as well as fragile Muslims are jailed, killed and burnt alive on account of their faith. They are falsely accused and persecuted over minor personal issues. No one dares challenge the authorities as all are familiar with the consequences. Should they challenge the status quo the result would be inevitable death. Persecution in this part of the world is without prosecution. As I write this article, I make my reflections on Claudine’s life, charism, mission and the legacy she left to us, the Religious of Jesus and Mary.”
