Aicha Settimia Canté, a 27-year-old woman from Safim and the daughter of a Muslim imam, made her temporary profession as a Catholic nun on August 15 during the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Joining the Congregation of the Sisters of the Divine Spirit (CDS), Canté described the occasion as an answer to God’s calling that filled her heart with deep gratitude, joy, and emotion. The ceremony, held in the Diocese of Bissau, highlights the notable interreligious harmony and coexistence present within Guinea-Bissau.
Born into a Muslim family, Canté’s journey to consecrated life began with her baptism at the parish of Our Lady of Grace in Farim, followed by her confirmation at Saint Anne Parish in Mansoa. Bishop Emeritus Monsignor José Câmnate Na Bissign presided over the Eucharistic celebration. During her thanksgiving address, Canté expressed heartfelt appreciation to the bishop, her religious superiors, and the mentors who supported her through her discernment, language studies, postulancy, and novitiate formation.
In his homily, Monsignor Na Bissign emphasized that a religious vocation is not merely a personal preference, but an essential divine mission requiring unwavering faith, determination, and a willingness to serve humanity. Reminding the congregation that faith remains crucial for navigating life’s complex challenges, the bishop encouraged the new nun to maintain a constant relationship with God through continuous prayer and gratitude as she begins her life of dedicated service