21 April 2022 was a memorable day in the annals of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Little Flower of Bethany Mangalore, as the five Novices from Rosa Mystica, Kinnikambla, after the example of the five virgins from the Gospel went to the wedding feast and dedicatedtheir life to God. Rev Dr Archibald Gonsalves, OCDthe Director of Ryshivana, Ranipuraofficiated the solemn Eucharist. He invited the newly Professed Sisters to respond to the call of God like prophet Samuel in the Old Testament, to consider everything as rubbish in knowing the surpassing value of Christ like StPaul, in the New Testament and to participate actively in the Synodality by being in close communion with the Lord and with one another. Rev Fr Reginald OP and Rev Fr Jaison Lobo the Parish Priest of Our Lady of Holy Rosary Church,Nidpalli were the concelebrants.
The Provincial Superiors of Mangalore, Bangalore and Western Provinces, Sr Cicilia Mendonca, Sr Sahana and Sr Sally received the vows of Sr Sushmitha D’ Souza,SrArpitha Jenifer, Sr Sneha Annie Blessy, Sr Flavia Gomes and Sr Janice Fernandes respectively in the name of the Church. After the Eucharistic celebration the newly professed Sisters proceeded to the Grotto of Mother Mary and poured out their sentiments of gratitude singing the Magnificat in union with Mother Mary.
A short felicitation programme was organized in the Tertiate Hall. Sr Leera Maria the Local Superior welcomed the gathering joyfully. Sr Cicilia Mendonca the Provincial Superior addressed the newly professed and called upon themto burn brightly for Christ like the sanctuary lamps with the oil of virtues. Sr Sahana and Sr Sally the Provincial Superiors greeted warmly the new brides of Christ to the fragrance of the flowers and to the melody of the songs. Sr Sneha and Sr Janice thanked all those who were present. The presence of the parents, siblings and sisters from various communities, tertians and candidates added joy to the occasion. All dispersed having shared in the fellowship meal, carrying the soul lifting experienceof the auspicious occasion. Sr Priyadarshini compered the entire programme.
News by: Sr Preethi Prathima BS, Asst Novice Directress, Kinnikambla