By Cl. April Jerome Quinto, SDB

Manila, the Philippines, 23 February 2017 -- At 7:00 pm, the Salesian Family celebrated the requiem mass for +Sr. Celine Clemente, FMA in the chapel of Don Bosco School, Manila.

Fr. Roberto ‘Bobby’ Roxas, SDB, FIN Delegate for the Salesian Family presided over the mass. In his homily, Fr. Bobby shared his reflection on the life of the 87-year old sister. He admired the strength she was able to muster after having a stroke. He shared stories of her fidelity to her duties, remarkable piety, and her desire to live a life that is faithful to her consecration. He retold a conversation Sr. Celine had with Sr. Elsa. The latter notes that her only desire and prayer was not for healing but for courage to accept the will of God. Sr. Celine responded, “That is my prayer too.” Fr. Bobby invited his fellow Salesians—priests, brothers and sisters, and all those who are present to look at how Sr. Celine lived her vocation and to be inspired by her life lived in love and fidelity.

After the mass, a video montage of her photos was shown and her nephew gave a touching eulogy. He shared that ever since he was born, Sr. Celine was auntie to him. He was a witness of how easy it is to love and be loved by her. He also was always edified by the simplicity of her life and her closeness to everyone. She would show her care and affection to all she meet whatever your stature in life may be—but it is not hard to notice that her heart is closer to the poor, to help those in need.

Sr. Mabel Pilar, FMA, FIL Provincial Superior, expressed her gratitude to those who have come and especially to the family and caregivers of Sr Celine. It was a Salesian Family memory worth keeping. FMA sisters, novices and aspirants from their presences in Manila and nearby provinces, students, past pupils, lay mission partners, Salesian priests and brothers, Salesian Cooperators have celebrated in the Eucharist the life that Sr. Celine has lived in love in fidelity.

In her 55 years of life as a Daughter of Mary of Mary Help of Christians, Sr. Celine has been assigned to Hong Kong, Don Bosco School—Manila, Mary Help of Christians School—Victorias, Laura Vicuña Foundation—Cubao, and Pius X Institute—Manila. Her body lies in state in the chapel of Don Bosco School—Manila.

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