The 24th of May 2020 was a day of great celebration and rejoicing, for despite the corona pandemic that gripped the world in fear, it did not deter the FMA Province of Mumbai or the Community of Sacred Heart Training Centre Nashik and neither the three young novices who made their first profession. The morning of the Solemnity of the Ascension witnessed a beautiful gathering of sisters of S.H.T.C and Maria Vihar and a few Salesians from the neighbouring communities, as three new members Sr. Sobina Fernandes, Sr. Mayuri Tribhuvan and Sr. Quincyann Vieira were welcomed into the large family of the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians. Rev. Bishop Lourdes Daniel of Nashik Diocese presided over the Eucharistic celebration with much fervour and zeal, along with two other Salesian concelebrants. He urged the newly professed sisters to imitate Christ by being rooted in Him and following His way, boldly bearing witness to Him and at the same time, seeking to do His will.
Having made their vows in the hands of our Superior Sr. Wilma De Souza, delegate of the Superior General, each of them received the crucifix and the Constitutions of the FMA. The words of St. Paul in his first letter to the Corinthians, “I imitate Christ” echoed in the minds and hearts of the newly professed as they sang with gusto their theme song, “Called to imitate Christ”.
The two temporary professed Sisters of Maria Vihar, Sr. Jesmine Fernandes and Sr. Benzina Vayaghar renewed their vows for another year. The lockdown did not dampen the spirit that reigned. The celebrations continued with the traditional cake cutting, songs and words of congratulations to the new brides. All partook in the festal meal that followed later.
A special word of thanks to the Provincial, Sr. Rita Dora Thomas for her prayers and support. A word of gratitude to the Novice Mistress, Sr. Salome D’Souza who accompanied them in their religious life to Sr. Jaya Pedthala and Sr. Sandra Fernandes for their assistance and help.
It was indeed a memorable day for the newly professed as their faces were radiant with joy and appreciation to all those who had journeyed with them this far.
During these unprecedented times, it is the words of Jesus that fill us with hope and a new beginning: “Yes, I am with you always, until the very end of time”, Mt. 28:20.