Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Asmara (Agenzia Fides) – In 1973, the Capuchin Fathers who had been present in Eritrea for some time, with a flourishing province, made a petition asking that a contemplative monastery of Capuchin Poor Clares be established in their area. Sisters Veronica Tornaselli and Letizia Boccardo left from Italy to later establish the first formation house for novices, with the help of the Capuchin Friars of Mendefera.
Today, there are 31 sisters in Eritrea, 28 with perpetual vows and 3 with temporal vows. There are 3 postulants and 50 aspirants. The first house, now named the Monastery of St. Clare, canonically erected according to eastern rule, has now been joined by another two affiliate houses: Saint Mary of the Angels in the capital city of Asmara and Saint Damian in Digsa, a small town to the south. In Mendefera, a new formation house is being built. The Capuchin Friars had provided formation for the aspirants for many years, with a higher education than is offered in the public schools. The setting in Mendefera offer a favorable environment for the students and guarantees them higher levels of education.
After 35 years in Eritrea, the Capuchin Poor Clares have shared many trials with the local people, including the long war of independence, climate patterns (drought, scarcity), and the political instability in regards to neighboring Ethiopia. The Sisters are close to the people through their prayer and assistance to the poor and people suffering from the serious and constant economic crises, sharing all they have with these persons. (AM) (Agenzia Fides 4/11/2008)
