It was a time of great joy and celebration, when on Saturday 14th January, 2012 at the Provincial House – Villa Maria in Nairobi, three Sisters, Redempta, Lilian and Josephine made their first vows. This celebration was flavoured by the three Jubilarians: Patricia Moran, Benadette Ndegwa and Carolyne Kinyua celebrating their Golden and Silver Jubilees respectively. We were also delighted to welcome five young ladies who have just joined us to start their pre-candidacy program in Miguta. Indeed these were multiple celebrations and that is why we have a reason to thank God for this Mercy seed that was seen blossoming at different levels.
Srs. Liz, Lilian, Josephine and Redempta
The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by a Kiltegan priest, Fr. David Larkin. In his homily, Fr. David talked of how the figure three is symbolic biblically and culturally and was still symbolic during the celebration. Three First Professions and three Jubilarians. In his inspiring homily, he reminded us that religious life is a prophetic way of life which must be lived with passion and compassion. He concluded with a short reflection in the form of a story. As boys, they intentionally used to throw their caps into an orchard belonging to a neighbour, the reason behind the tossing of their caps as youngsters over the wall was, to get apples in the name of following for their caps. This was challenging our act of profession and commitment that we have willingly tossed our lives unto Jesus and so there is need to go after him as we follow our ‘caps’. Not just during our profession day, but also every single day of our lives. It is therefore worth it to reflect on where is my ‘cap’? Have I thrown it over the fence and forgotten all about it?
Srs. Bernadette Ndegwa, Patricia Moran and Caroline Kinyua
The hymns for the choir were nicely chosen and they suited the occasion very well. Thanks to our first year Novices and Postulants together with their formators for the lively liturgy. The singing was enriched by kayambas, drums and ullulations. The newly professed Sisters each gave a brief testmony as to how joyful and delighted they were to follow Christ as women of Mercy. To crown the celebration, we all shared in a sumptuous meal. It was a great time to socialize and chat away with Sisters whom we meet only occasionally. Thereafter, two tasty cakes were cut for the newly professed and the Jubilarians. We did not hesitate to partake of the sweetness of life represented by these two cakes.
It was a good celebration in which new members were professed as the senior ones already on the path of mercy witnessed fidelity and life-long commitment. Redempta has been missioned to Nguutani, Lilian to Lokori in Turkana and Josephine to Mutomo. Motomo and Nguutani are both in Kitui Diocese. We wish them all well and many more returns of blessings as they begin their journey in Mercy. Karibuni sana!!! And to our Jubilarians at the close of their jubilee year, Sisters Patricia, Bernadette and Caroline, congratulations for your fidelity and commitment to Mercy. May the good Lord continue to illumine your lives. God bless you All, God bless Mercy!!!
Agnes Mwali Hunter rsm
Kenyan Province
