A Calling to Joy, Prayer and Action
July 6, 2026
By Sister Rosemary Rudo Nyazenga, SNDdeN
I believe my calling to the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur is God’s invitation—just as Scripture said, “I have called you by name, you are mine.”
My first interaction with the Congregation happened through a friend who knew the Sisters
Sister Rosemary Rudo Nyazenga, SNDdeN in Kenya
in Zimbabwe and shared my contact information with them. They reached out and invited me to a “Come and See” experience. During that visit, I had the chance to meet Sister Anne Doyle and tour the Sisters’ communities.
What moved me deeply was learning about our foundress, St. Julie Billiart. She dedicated her life to God’s mission and helping those in greatest need. Her story touched me deeply and affirmed in my heart that the SNDdeN is where I am meant to be rooted. Sister Anne left a spiritual impression on me. She has been a Sister for over 50 years and continues to serve with joy, energy and unwavering dedication to helping others. Her example motivates me to stay committed to my own journey.
The various stages of formation nourished my calling and provided me with the space to grow in many ways. In the novitiate, I was encouraged to express my gifts and passions, especially my love for farming. After my profession, this gift found a place in my ministry at the Notre Dame Farm in Illula, Uasin Gishu County, Kenya.
Working on the farm is my passion and brings me great joy. I raise poultry and grow various crops, including beans, groundnuts, yams, Irish potatoes and other vegetables. Customers visit the farm to buy fresh produce. We supply hotels with our harvest. We also keep dairy cows for milk. All the farm activities and products help support the community. For me, farming is not just work but prayer in action. Through the rhythm of planting, cultivating and harvesting, I experience God’s presence and providence. In this ministry, I see how God has shaped my vocation: to make known His goodness through the fruits of the earth, the dignity of labor and the joy of serving His people.
This Summer 2026 Sowing Goodness article was originally published in the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur International magazine, Good Works, Volume 2, No. 2, November 2025.
