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IGLESIA EPISCOPAL DOMINICANA EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Buen Pastor Sisters of the Transfiguration |
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Diocesan Tour![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
In the Barrio Los Flores (Neighborhood of the Flowers) Buen Pastor is an oasis of hope in one of the poorest barrios in the San Pedro de Marcoris area. Buen Past is a nutrition, education, health, and spiritual center which is managed by the Sisters of Transfiguration, an Episcopal order of sisters. The Sisters of Transfiguration initially came to the Dominican Republic after Hurricane David devastated the island 1979. Their stay was temporary and their purpose was to help hurricane victims. In May 1984 they returned to study the social needs of DR. Based on this investigation, they made a commitment to help the children and families in the Barrio Los Flores. When the Sisters first arrived in the barrio, many young children were dieing of malnutrition or related health problems. Families living there initially came to this barrio seeking work. When there was no work to be found, they "squatted" on land adjacent to the sewage treat plant.
In the beginning, most of the Sister's programs revolved around problems
of health and malnutrition. The Sisters quickly realized that there
was no end to the medical needs of this community, so they opened a
medical dispensary.
In recent years, the number of deaths due to malnutrition have been significantly reduced in Barrio Los Flores, thanks to the Sisters of Transfiguration. Though these program are still important, the Sisters have expanded their education programs. They offer primary education and adult education classes. The Sisters of Transfiguration's work goes well beyond meeting the nutritional, health, and educational concerns of those living in the barrio. They are advocates for the people who live there, regardless of their religious denomination. When hurricanes roar into the San Pedro area, they have provided food, clothing, and shelter to storm refugees. They have purchased and distributed building materials to repair and rebuilt homes. The Sisters have appeared in Dominican courts on the behalf of the unrepresented. Children with critical health problems have received the care they need in the United States. They have cared for the dieing and provided support to families in times of tragedy. Daily services are provided in the barrio. A new chapel is being constructed across from the nutritional center. The vicar of St. Stephen's Church in San Pedro is also responsible for the Buen Pastor (The Good Shepard). The Community of the Transfiguration, founded in 1898 by Eva Lee Matthews, is a Religious community of women dedicated to prayer and service. The Mother
House is located in Cincinnati, Ohio, where their ministries include
hospitality, retreats, a school, a retirement/nursing home and a
recreation center. The community also offers a retreat ministry on the
West Coast.
The Sisters live their life under the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. The motto of the community is Benignitas, Simplicitas and Hilarities - Kindness, Simplicity, and Joy. There is no better example of this than their ministry in Barrio Los Flores in San Pedro de Marcoris. The work of the Sisters of Transfiguration is supported by financial contributions which are tax-deductible. For information on how you can support them, contact the Sisters at this E-mail address: ct.sistersdr@verison.net.do
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"You Are My Witnesses" St. Luke 28: 48 Telephone #: (809) 686-7493; (809) 688-6016 FAX: (809) 686-6364 E-Mail: iglepidom@verizon.net.do |
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