CELEBRATING THE FIRST PROFESSION IN THE MIDST OF THE PANDEMIC
“God knows best” was the expression of novice Sanjni when her plans for her vows in India were changed due to the pandemic situation.
From the Psalm “My soul clings to you; His right hand upholds me” were the very sentiments of Sister Sanjni Sunita Tirkey when she made her First Profession on July 25, 2020 at the Novitiate Chapel, Alabang. The Eucharistic celebration was officiated by Fr. Joseph Mallari, CRS. Because of the virus crown situation, the event looked different from other professions in the past, but that did not make it any less special or insignificant. It was solemn and a very homely celebration with a few sisters from the Manila communities and a lay novice mistress.
The Mass was transmitted live so that sisters, youth, friends and family could participate online. In the liturgy we include in the Indian culture a dance during the offertory by the novices as an expression of joy, a sign of gratitude for all the wonders God has done in Sr. Sanjni followed by an “aarti” during the doxology.
The congratulation after Mass was beautiful and meaningful. We had a simple dinner snack followed by a video presentation of her family, the RMI sisters from different parts of the world and the young women who sent their greetings and wishes. We were happy to see the sisters we had not seen for years. It was a moving experience for all of us. The pandemic situation connected us more than ever. Like Vicenta Maria we say “Let us thank God for everything”.
H Lydia rmi