Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco
Daughters of Mary Help of Christians

Gratitude Day in the USA

For the first time ever, the Salesian Sisters Western Province was selected to host the World Gratitude Day in Southern California. We were united with the Salesian Family in thanking God for the gift of our Charism, and specifically for the gift of our Superior General from Rome, Mother Yvonne Reungoat. It was truly a blessing to have Mother Yvonne’s presence with us and to give thanks for her loving service and leadership. We are grateful to everyone who participated in the various festivities from April 14 - May 2, 2019 and to all of the benefactors who made this occasion possible.

The young people from St. Thomas, St. Mary's and St. Dominic Savio communities, directed by Pat Rico, performed the beautiful musical production “Cantata of St. Mary Mazzarello” for Mother Yvonne.

We all waited with deep gratitude to God for the gift of Mother Yvonne’s visit. Her presence, as successor of St. Mary Mazzarello, is a continued reminder that Our Lady lives among us.

Irma Bijarro Ortega
Salesian Cooperator

When she visited Mary Help of Christians School in Laredo, a school celebrating 85 years of presence in the city, she was greeted with a student assembly and a luncheon. There were many groups represented and one of the largest was the past pupils. A four-generation family of former and present students was introduced and received a blessing from Mother Yvonne.

Rosario Davila
Past Pupil

As I briefly spoke about VIDES, I asked Mother Yvonne to pray for us and for those who were on mission. Being in the presence of Mother Yvonne was a peaceful and joyful experience. As Evening Prayer ended, the celebration continued in the dining room. There was singing and laughing. It was a beautiful occasion.

Paul Alvarez
Former VIDES Volunteer

Students and faculty welcome Mother Yvonne to the school assembly at St. John Bosco School in San Antonio, TX.

4 Generations of Past Pupils from Mary Help of Christians in Laredo, TX. Back Row: Marla Alanis, Arely Alanis (baby) Diana Carrillo, Mother Yvonne and Minerva Trevino Front Row: Alyna Alanis and Amelie Alanis

Candidates, Postulants and Novices Gathering with Mother Yvonne Reungoat at World Gratitude Day. Back Row: Rose Wingard, Natasha Roig, Claire Ramos, Mother Yvonne Reungoat, Valeria Jiménez, Shaila Mathai, Genevieve Metzger, and Sr. Lien Phan Front Row: Sr. Cherilly Galley, Chelsy Sánchez, Brithany Gutiérrez Bustillo and Anne Weis

Mother Yvonne greets various dignitaries during the World Gratitude Day Luncheon in Bellflower, CA. Fr. Ted Montemayor, SDB (Western Province Salesian Provincial), Elizabeth Gamarra (Salesian Family Delegate), Mother Yvonne and Bishop Marc Trudeau (Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles)

Salesian Cooperators gather with Mother Yvonne at Cristo Rey Parish in Austin, TX.

Mother Yvonne is welcomed by the Salesian Parent Leadership Team at Salesian Elementary and Jr. High School in Corralitos, CA. Adrian Race, Natalie Candau, Nichole Dewig, Lisa Flynn, Mother Yvonne, Kate Tofig, Liz Findrick and Jeff Randolph