Recently, during a visit to Zambia, our Congregational Leader, Sr Patricia, had the joy of being present for a very special moment in the life of the Congregation, the First Profession of Vows of Sr Loveness Mulenga. Gathered in prayer and thanksgiving, sisters in the Zambia/Malawi Region celebrated this important step in Sr Loveness’ journey of faith and commitment to God. Loveness’ family and friends, and many of Sisters in other parts of the world joined through the livestream. The following reflection, written by Sr Loveness herself, shares her experience on the day of her First Profession on 24 January 2026
I was professed on 24th of January 2026. On that day I was anxious about the unknown at the same time joy filled my heart. I did not know what I was feeling but I was aware that I was present. I kept asking myself; is it really me? Before the Mass started, I saw Fr. Cathal who was to celebrate my Mass and the sisters were well dressed, with smiles on their faces. I looked at my Novice Mistress Sr Francisca Hang’ombe who was standing beside me, I smiled at her. Then I asked God, ‘Lord are they all here to celebrate me?’ Then I heard a small voice saying yes to me. I smiled to myself again and followed in the procession.
When I was at the altar, I was anxious, I was not feeling myself neither did I hear my voice when I was pronouncing my vows. After pronouncing my vows, the sisters came forward to congratulate me. Tears of joy filled my eyes, but I didn’t allow my tears to fall, then I asked myself, ‘Am I worthy Lord?’ Then I heard my heart saying yes you are; because God is calling you the way you are. When I looked at the congregation and the sisters singing with joyful hearts with their angelic voices. I was also aware that many people were watching online including some of our sisters and friends. The striking homily which Father gave, just gave me courage to say, ‘Lord, let your will be done.’ I surrendered everything to him and I felt relieved. This helped me to have courage to say yes to start living this unknown life Jesus himself is calling me to. From that moment I felt my life changing because I had committed myself to God, to be at his service.
I will always remember Sr Patricia, our Congregational Leader, with her gentle smile, her friendly presence and her sense of humour. Above all her presence during my first vows. These are the things I will remember and cherish. She inspired me by her humility and kindness. Every time she crosses my mind, I always say a prayer for her.
Thank you very much, God bless.
Sr Loveness Mulenga.
