Clean, running water is a luxury in many villages across the world. Waterborne diseases account for thousands of deaths each year.
During the 2025 Lenten season we hope you will take a moment to learn about how the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur are providing solutions to the water crisis in Africa where our Sisters live and work.
On March 22, World Water Day, the world reflects on the importance of water in our daily lives. It’s the ideal opportunity to also focus on how the Clean Water for Life program is impacting people around the world who lack access to drinkable water in their homes and villages.
Through this program, the Sisters have been working since 2003 to develop, install and maintain water purification systems in Africa. These are the rural villages where the Sisters themselves live and serve in hospitals, clinics and schools. Preventable, water borne diseases are a serious health threat, especially to children, pregnant women and the elderly. But the Clean Water for Life program is saving lives by providing the equipment and knowledge to extract and purify water using systems that run on solar energy.
This Lenten season, as you pour a glass of water, turn on your shower or start a load of laundry in your home, please pray for the families around the world who suffer from water scarcity.
With blessings for a meaningful Lent,
Sister Ann Fanella, SNDdeN
Clean Water for Life Project Volunteer
PRAYERS FROM SISTER Ruth Myers, SNDdeN
St. Joseph was chosen by God to be the foster father of Jesus and spouse of Mary, Mother of God. Joseph, being a righteous man, lived according to the Law of the Lord.
He was able to draw inspiration from this on every occasion of his life. Joseph did not utter a word but believed, hoped and loved. He trusted in God and obeyed, which led quite willingly to obedience.
As we continue our journey during this season of Lent, let us follow his example of being faithful and obedient to God's love in all aspects of our lives.