Renewal of Vows of Sr. Karla Napala & Sr. Riza Cosme
A Reflection by Sr. Karla
Along with the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on August 15, 2026 at 10:00 a.m., Sr. Riza G. Cosme and I renewed our temporary vows for one year at the Regional House Chapel, Las Pinas City, Philippines. The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Fr. Al John Provido, RCJ, and our vows were received through the Regional Superior, Sr. Annie D. Estraza, MPS.
“He has come to the help of Israel his servant, mindful of his faithful love.”- Luke 1:54
As I renewed my vows, I found myself looking back at the journey God and I have shared. There have been joyful and blessed moments, but also quiet seasons when I felt tired, wounded, lost, and uncertain. The more I tried to walk forward, the more I realized how much I needed God. Yet, He never failed to lift me up, gently push me to my limits, and remind me that He remains at my side.
Many times, I have asked, “My God, can You not see that I am still returning to my old ways?” And instead of condemning me, He seems to gently tap my heart with His mercy, reminding me that falling is not the end of the journey. His faithful love always gives me the courage to begin again. I may not always understand His plans, but I trust the One who called me, and I am simply a follower who tries.
The Gospel of the Visitation of Mary to Elizabeth spoke deeply to me during this renewal. When Mary received God's invitation, she “went in haste.” She trusted and moved, even without knowing everything that would happen. I experienced a little of this during my own preparation. But Mama Mary seemed to remind me: Go. Trust. Follow. And so, I did. Perhaps this is also what vocation asks of us. We make plans, but God sometimes changes the route. He does not always reveal the whole journey; He simply invites us to trust Him one step at a time.
Renewing my vows reminded me that my “yes” is not only for the beautiful and certain moments. It is also a yes in times of uncertainty, weakness, change, and waiting.
Still, now and ahead, I do not claim to have become the person I hope to be. I come simply as I am, with gratitude for the past, humility for my weaknesses, and hope for what lies ahead. He calls, I listen; He leads, I follow; and when I stumble, His faithful love helps me rise again.
And so, once again, I say: “Yes, Lord. I am here. I am still learning, still becoming, still trying, but I am Yours.”




Thanksgiving for the 25th Anniversary of Religious Profession of Srs. Nohemí Justo and Norma Salazar








