Chiapas Mission, Palenque

The Spirit has been stirring in the three United States Provinces of the Sisters of Penance and Christian Charity for a presence in Mexico since the late 1950’'s when sisters responded to various invitations to minister in Mexico. In the 1960's Sacred Heart Province established a presence in Orizabita and later (1970’s) sisters from St. Francis Province joined them in carrying out ministries of pastoral and health care. A desire for a shared mission in Mexico amongst all three Provinces was expressed in the 1970's through an interprovincial committee known as "Connections". It was not until 1991 that Srs. Marilyn Archer (Holy Name Province), Antonia Anthony (Sacred Heart Province), and Consuelo Arana (St. Francis Province) were sent by the leadership of the three Provinces to search for a location for a future mission. Bishop Don Samuel Ruiz, with his prophetic vision and voice, was an integral part of the decision to establish a presence in Chiapas, Mexico. He spoke of a ministry of "acompanamiento," accompanying the Indigenous (native) people in their journey toward liberation.

Now, eighteen years later, the three United States provinces continue to nurture the seed that was planted in Palenque, Chiapas. There are now two local communities in Palenque: Casa Nantic Magdalena and Casa Franciscana. The community includes three young Indigenous sisters in final vows: Srs. Maria Mayo, Letitcia Perez and Micaela Mendez. Sr. Maria completed a University education and Srs. Letitcia and Micaela completed studies in nursing. Sr. Candida Gonzales (novice) is finishing her studies in nursing. Sr. Consuelo Arana is regarded lovingly by the sisters and the people of Palenque as one of the "founding mothers."

Periodically, sisters from the three United States provinces have gone to Palenque to give ongoing formation classes and participate in the diverse ministries, while providing companionship and solidarity to the community and the people. Members of the three Provincial Councils visit Palenque annually. Sisters from our international community have also had the opportunity to know the life and ministry of the sisters in Chiapas.