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A Journey of Commitment: Celebrating Final Vows and Silver Jubilee

May 2024

“To the Heart of Jesus, to the Heart of Jesus! Here we have the beginning, the end, the centre and extremity” - St John Antony Farina.

A vigil prayer service followed, commencing with a solemn procession of the final profession candidate and jubilarians. During the ceremony, the final profession candidate was presented with an empty pot, symbolizing human emptiness and the need for divine grace. This act harkened back to the miraculous event at the wedding of Cana, where Jesus transformed water into wine, filling the empty vessel with abundance. As a gesture of gratitude and reverence, the jubilarians offered branches of Cyprus, reminding all present of the significance of this tree mentioned in the Bible. The cypress trees grow thick and green, providing shelter for the birds. In Scripture, King Solomon used the cypress tree in the construction of the temple, symbolizing God's choice of the precious and beloved. God values and protects those who are precious to Him, desiring to make them a dwelling place for His presence. In times of pruning and challenges, there is no need to worry, as God always takes care of His chosen ones, nurturing their growth and setting them apart for His divine purpose.

The community then united in prayer, following the liturgy of the church. At the culmination of the service, the Provincial Superior was invited to light a lamp and to light the candles of each of them, symbolizing the illumination of their paths as they continue to be the light of the world in their service and commitment to God and humanity, signifying their shared commitment to spreading the light of Christ.

The final commitment in religious life signifies a profound milestone, exemplifying unwavering dedication to both God and humanity. Celebrating 25 years of devoted service, the Silver Jubilee stands as a testament to this commitment, honouring Sr. Jyothi Mannava's Final Vows, alongside the Silver Jubilee of Sr. Bindu Kakattupillil, Sr. Jaya Muniyas, Sr. Lissy Puthussery, and Sr. Sherly Dominic.

On May 14, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., the peak of the celebration commenced with a Solemn Holy Eucharistic celebration led by Rt Rev. Dr. Jose Pandarasseril, the Auxiliary Bishop of Kottayam, at the provincial house in Aluva. Rev Fr. Joy Kaipananickal SDB and Rev Fr. Varghese Kootunkal SDB, Sacred Heart Parish priest concelebrated the Holy Mass. The liturgy was enriched by readings resonating with themes of gratitude and service. During the homily, His Excellency Bishop Jose compared the lives of the nuns to diamonds, even though they are hard to mine, but after processing, they become precious. They have to be like Jesus' pure diamonds through years of training, getting the hard edges smoother, and getting a fine diamond, which is very precious and of high cost. He also indicated that the prophet Jeremiah's acknowledgment of his youth underscores the divine ability to work through the humblest of vessels. In embracing his calling, he exemplifies the profound truth that God's purpose transcends human limitations, inviting all of us to trust in the transformative power of divine grace.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, a felicitation ceremony ensued, honouring Sr. Jyothi, the final professed sister, and the jubilarians for their profound impact on the congregation and the Church. Felicitation speeches by esteemed guests highlighted the spiritual journey and committed service of these dedicated nuns. The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks, underscoring the significance of their commitment, followed by the cutting of cake and agape. Conclusively, the celebration of the final commitment and the Silver Jubilee serve as a poignant reminder of the unwavering dedication and selfless service epitomized by Sr. Jyothi Mannava and the jubilarians. Their journey, marked by faith, sacrifice, and love, has left an indelible mark on the congregation and the church. As they embark on the next chapter of their spiritual voyage, may they continue to be guided by the light of Christ, illuminating the world with their compassion, kindness, and untiring commitment to God and humanity. Let us extend our heartfelt gratitude and seek God's blessings for their spiritual journey ahead.

Sr. Jyothi Mannava

Jubilarians
Sr. Bindu Kakkattupillil
Sr. Jaya Muniyas
Sr. Lissy Puthussery
Sr. Sherly Dominic