Ten vibrant young IHM Sisters from different dioceses of Nigeria made their Final Vows on 5th September, 2020 at the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity, Onitsha.
Final Religious Profession is made by persons who have been Catholic Nuns or Sisters for a number of years. After experiencing the life of a chosen Institute, those concerned would make their Final Commitment to God after due preparations.
The celebration took place within a solemn Holy Mass presided over by Most Rev. Valerian Maduka Okeke, the Archbishop of Onitsha Archdiocese and the Metropolitan of Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province. He concelebrated with few other priests.
“The community of humanity is blessed to have Consecrated Persons.” That was the Prelate, highlighting the value and importance of Religious Life. Going on with his homily which he titled the ‘Beauty and Splendor of Consecrated Life’, he said that goodness is attractive: the greater the good, the more attraction it holds. “God who is good holds the strongest attraction. The invisible beauty that is God, draws and fascinates us. Therefore, the Consecrated Persons getting closer to God, radiate the beauty and splendour of God, for this, people are attracted to them.”
Archbishop Okeke encouraged the Sisters to ensure that their intentions for their consecration and actions of taking their vows tally. “It is charity when our intentions and actions tally,” he said. He also invited families and friends to be supportive and not obstacles in their life of consecration.
Mother Mary Claude Oguh, IHM, the Superior General of the Institute, received the Vows of the Sisters in the name of the Church and the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mother of Christ. Sr. Mary Agnita Maduka, the Vicar General and Sr. Mary Anthonia Ekwelem, Directress were Witnesses.
Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mother of Christ family and the families of the Sisters, together with representatives from parishes, friends and well wishers had a reception for them after the Mass at the Holy Trinity Basilica field.
The Sisters expressed joy and gratitude to God, the Institute and all supporters for reaching thus far.
At the end of the celebration, the Superior General appreciated all present for their prayers, presence and support.
Sr. Mary Judith Ezeogu, IHM.
