More and more new residents are moving to Alverna Estate, while fewer Sisters are living there. But these new neighbours want to be good neighbours to the Sisters. So they asked if they could organise a Neighbours Day in the convent! They were given permission. More than 110 people attended. It was a warm and cheerful afternoon full of meeting and getting to know each other. Almost all the Sisters were able to attend. The young adults with disabilities from our third floor served delicious snacks. Everyone was welcome. The atmosphere was wonderful. On top of that, a group of enterprising men announced that they would be restoring the statues in the convent garden and cemetery. The sisters were delighted to hear this news. It reflects the good atmosphere in which we live together on the estate. And it helps the sisters to process the inevitable changes. Because the spirit of service of Mother Clara is felt and embraced by the new residents.

Written by Mirjam Wolthuis