The Sisters of the Holy Rosary celebrated the First Religious Profession of Novices Annie Mbukwa and Rodah Ng’oma at St. Denis Parish in Rumphi District. The Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by the Rt. Rev. Yohane Suzgo Nyirenda, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Mzuzu.
It was a joyful and memorable Eucharistic Celebration, attended by many Christians, Catechists, Sisters, Priests, family members, and well-wishers who gathered to witness this important milestone in the lives of the newly professed Sisters.
In his homily, Bishop Yohane Suzgo Nyirenda encouraged the Sisters of the Holy Rosary to imitate the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary, particularly her simplicity, obedience, love, and commitment to God. He emphasized that living according to these virtues would help the Sisters faithfully respond to their vocation and deepen their relationship with God.
The Bishop further reflected on the three religious vows of obedience, poverty, and chastity, explaining that these vows are central to religious life and must be lived faithfully. He clarified that the vow of poverty does not mean living a life of misery, but rather embracing simplicity and being poor in spirit. He encouraged the newly professed Sisters to remain committed to God, persevere in prayer, and continually deepen their faith.
During the celebration, Sr. Annie Mbukwa and Sr. Rodah Ng’oma dedicated themselves to God by professing the vows of obedience, poverty, and chastity. Sr. Rita Matanje also explained the significance of the materials presented to the newly professed Sisters, including the Bible, Breviary, Congregational Constitution, Rosary, and other materials that will accompany them throughout their vocation journey. She compared these materials to the gifts and household necessities traditionally given to women as they begin married life.
Following the Eucharistic Celebration, the Mother General announced the new appointments of the newly professed Sisters. Sr. Rodah Ng’oma was appointed to St. Mary’s Community, while Sr. Annie Mbukwa was appointed to St. Annie’s Community in Karonga Diocese.
During the celebration, the Sisters of the Holy Rosary also renewed their religious vows of obedience, poverty, and chastity. This renewal is done annually on 7 October, the Feast of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, as a reminder of their continued commitment and dedication to God.
The joint choir from St. Denis Parish led the congregation in beautiful hymns throughout the Eucharistic Celebration. Traditional dancers also added colour and joy to the occasion, contributing to a vibrant and meaningful liturgy.
In his speech, Bishop Yohane Suzgo Nyirenda expressed his gratitude to the parents of the newly professed Sisters for offering their daughters to God through the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Rosary. He also thanked the newly professed Sisters for responding generously to God’s call to religious life. The Bishop further expressed appreciation to the Priests, Sisters, Catechists, Christians, and all those who travelled to witness and support the First Religious Profession.
The Mother General of the Sisters of the Holy Rosary encouraged the newly professed Sisters to remain focused on their vocation and not to look back. She urged them to cultivate a strong life of prayer, emphasizing that prayer would sustain them and give them strength when they encounter challenges in their vocation. She also expressed gratitude to everyone who attended the Eucharistic Celebration and to all those who supported the newly professed Sisters through prayers, gifts, encouragement, and their presence.
The celebration was a significant moment of thanksgiving to God and a joyful witness to the continued growth of the Sisters of the Holy Rosary in their mission of proclaiming the Kingdom of God in love.
Prepared by Sr Justina Ngulube (SHR)
