My own experience of being ‘reborn’ began in the early days of religious life. Everything was new: even simple tasks like washing dishes, setting the table, and cleaning had to be learned or relearned. At twenty, I had thought myself capable and self-sufficient in the world. However, in the convent, I was brought to a place of humility and openness, much like Nicodemus, who struggled to grasp Jesus’ invitation: ‘Unless one is born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God’ (Jn 3:3).

 Looking back, I see how this experience became a powerful encounter with God. It invited me to surrender more deeply and rely entirely on God’s grace. Jesus speaks not of a physical rebirth, but of a spiritual transformation through the Holy Spirit. In Baptism, we are born into this new life – a life rooted in a relationship with God as His beloved.

This rebirth is not a one-time event but an ongoing invitation to allow the Spirit to renew and reshape us. As we grow in this new life, we begin to bear the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (c.f. Gal 5:22–23).

Come, Spirit of the Living God, fall afresh on us. Breathe new life into our hearts, that we may be true witnesses of your kingdom here and now.

 by Sr. Theresa Maria Dao, SPC