The Nigerian Region has had many reasons to celebrate in the last few months. Postulants joined the congregation in July and in September there were First and Final Vow celebrations
On the 26th of July 2010, three young women joined the Religious Sisters of Charity as Postulants. Their names are Edidiong William-Etim, Philomena Nnaji and Justina Osumune.
September was a busy month in the region with the two vow ceremonies. The first to take place was the First Profession of Sr Chioma Ezeh. Here Srs. Jacinta and Chioma explains what the day meant to them:
“My childhood aspiration and dreams came to the beginning of its actualization on the 11th day of September, 2010. It was a day I sincerely desired to see and a day I will never forget in my life. I was so happy with God, myself and the Sisters of Charity. It was the day I made my first profession of vows, in the Religious Sisters of Charity.
“The day was bright and calm. The Eucharistic celebration started at about 10.30am in the Novitiate chapel, Ibadan, Nigeria. The chapel was well decorated with exotic flowers for this memorable occasion. My joy knew no bounds when I saw my family members, especially my mother who, at first, found it very difficult to accept my desire for becoming a Religious. The Sisters in the Nigerian Region were well represented as well as the sisters from other Regions and Provinces, who came to Nigeria for the intra-formation workshop in Ijebu Itele. I was deeply impressed by their presence. The celebration was graced by six priests including my parish priest at home and some other parishioners. Rev. Fr Peter Adetoyinbo was the chief celebrant. The liturgy was so beautiful and the homily very motivating and life giving. The insight I got from the homily was that; I should be focused in living the vows I have professed, since I have been betrothed to God, who is faithful in all his Words and loving in all his deeds. At the end of the Mass, there was a lively entertainment in Nigerian style at the Novitiate hall. Everyone enjoyed the celebration. I was then missioned to Port-Harcourt community to work in the Compassion Centre.
I am grateful to all who have contributed in making this day a success. My heart goes in appreciation to the Religious Sisters of Charity that accepted me, my formators, my fellow Novices who lived with me, the sisters who have been very supportive to me, my family and friends. I will always cherish this experience. A.M.D.G.” Sr. Chioma
A REMARKABLE DAY IN MY LIFE
“On the 18th of September 2010, I made my final vows in the congregation of the Religious Sisters of Charity. It was a beautiful and happy day for me, my family and my Religious community and everyone that witnessed the occasion. The celebration took place in SS Michael, Raphael and Gabriel Catholic church, Satellite Town, Lagos. His Lordship, Right Rev. Dr. Hyacinth Egbebo was the chief celebrant. The homily was enriching and very inspiring to me. It was based on the theme of discipleship. This experience has drawn me closer to God, and more trusting in God’s love for me. I cannot stop thanking Him for his mercy and love. I feel honoured and loved, and I thank my congregation, the Religious Sisters of Charity for this privilege given to me.”
Sr. Jacinta
Below Sr. Jacinta K. Stephen & Sr. Chioma Ezeh