On November 16, 2024, the Dominican Sisters of Sparkill celebrated Sister Anna Bashir's Perpetual Profession (Final Vows) in St. Dominic’s Church in Bahawalpur, Pakistan. The Dominican Sisters and Associates are filled with immense gratitude and joy for Sister Anna’s great YES! She joins the Congregation in faith, courage, commitment, and with enthusiasm for the Mission. Sister Zubeda Tarcis, OP, a Formation Team Member, summed up the other Sisters' sentiments: “It was a day of many blessings and an opportunity to give thanks and rejoice with Anna's family.”
In Sister Anna’s words…
I am Sr. Anna Bashir, OP. I belong to a Catholic Christian family from Francisabad village in Shorkot, Pakistan. I am one of four siblings, with two brothers and one sister. My parents are simple people who live a life of faith, love, and joy.
Inspired by the Dominican Sisters of Sparkill in Bahawalpur, I joined the Congregation in 2013, had my formation classes with Sister Violet Sampour (RIP 2017), and also taught at Razabad Primary School, Multan. My first profession was on February 24, 2018. During this time, I experienced God's grace and a deep connectedness with Him. I found religious life as a way of deepening relationships with God and others. It also helped me to embrace the values of love, compassion, and joy.
Then, I moved to Bahawalpur to pursue higher studies. After earning a BSC (Bachelor of Science), I taught for three years to Grade One in Convent School. I completed further studies (BS Zoology) at Sadiq Women University, Bahawalpur and finished in September 2024. During these two years of study, we attended the school for two periods, and now, I continue my ministry as a full-time teacher at Dominican Convent Higher Secondary School, Bahawalpur. I feel joy in teaching and learning. Additionally, I try to spend more time with my community, sharing our joys and sorrows.
With God's grace, I made my final profession on 16 November 2024. It was a memorable and wonderful day of celebration for my family, friends, and community. The continued love, prayers, and support of my family and sisters in Pakistan and the United States helped me to nurture my relationship with God and His people. I am grateful to God for these precious moments of joy and peace in my life. As I move forward, I request you to please continue to keep me in your prayers for the journey ahead. Thank you and God bless you.
