TESTIMONIES OF THE FIRST INTERNATIONAL TEAM
Sister Luzdari Jiménez, DC, passed away on September 21, 2024. She was also the first Delegate of the International Secretariat of VMY (1999-2001). From VMY International, we want to express our gratitude for her great love and service to VMY, which she especially marked with her presence and dedication in Cali-Colombia, in the Dominican Republic (2003-2006), and throughout Latin America. To honor her, we want to give the floor to those who knew and loved her from VMY International.
“Dearest Sister Luzdari, I have no words to express all that you meant in my life and in VMY International. Tireless, determined, with great love for the youth and a wonderful sense of humor, with a deep devotion to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal. You were a guide and a companion during my time at the VMY International Secretariat. I remember you with great affection. My prayers and gratitude go to heaven for you. Rest in peace.” (Gloria Sántillan, volunteer of the SIJMV 1999-2001 and member of the International Council 2000-2005).
“Rest in peace… You were the best example of dedication, love, and commitment to the mission of the VMY International Secretariat. I will always remember you with gratitude and affection.” (Ana María Escaño, volunteer of the SIJMV 1999-2001 and member of the International Council 2000-2005).
“Thank you, my Lord, for the life of Sister Luzdari. Thank you for her vocation of service to the poor, to the youth of VMY who once crossed paths with her on the journey of life. Some of us are no longer so young, but despite the time and distance, her mark remains with us, we remember her as a generous, devoted, joyful person, unafraid to speak of the gospel, always willing and available. Dear Sister Luzdari, you have fulfilled your mission. From up above, intercede for so many young people and not-so-young people who still need the light of Christ. Rest in peace!” (Dorys Castillo, volunteer of the SIJMV 2003-2006 and member of the International Council, 2005-2010).
“I knew Sister Luzdari as the national advisor of VMY in the Dominican Republic… A true sister!… I have very fond memories of her… What a joy to know that she is now with the Father!” (Yancarlos Carrasco, volunteer of the SIJMV 2013-2016 and International President, 2015-2021).
“Sister Luzdari, you taught us to love the Virgin Mary!!! You took very seriously the mandate of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal to serve the youth through JMV. You always bet on the youth, encouraging them and believing in them. We will always be grateful to you. Mission accomplished. Rest in peace in the arms of our Mother.” (Yasmine Cajuste, volunteer of the SIJMV 2003-2006 and International President, 2005-2015).
“I met Sister Luzdari at the Ibero-American VMY mission meeting held in Colombia before 2000. Since then, I admired her love for the Virgin and the Association, which she shared for several years with Sister María Emilia Eccheverri, founder of VMY in the Province of Cali. Our joy was great when we learned of her appointment as Delegate of the Superior General, Sister Juana Elizondo, to accompany the new International Secretariat in Madrid. It was a short time shared with Father Eugenio and the first young volunteers, but enough to nurture the roots and warm that first group. We never met at the Secretariat, but she was always a reference and a teacher to consult regarding the Association’s journey in Latin America. It was a true privilege to enjoy her closeness, friendship, and prayer, always spreading that zeal for evangelizing adolescents and youth. I know that Our Immaculate Mother has opened the door of the Mission of Heaven for her. From there, she continues to pray for us. “Fly high, dear Sister Luzdari, we will meet again there.” (Pedro Castillo, Director of the International Secretariat, 2001-2008