Perpetual Profession: A Joyful Celebration of Vocation
The Marist family gathered in a spirit of joy and thanksgiving to celebrate the Perpetual Profession of six confreres from different parts of the world. The event brought together brothers, friends, and collaborators to witness a profound moment of commitment in the life of the Society.
The Eucharist, celebrated with the wider Marist family, was presided over by Fr. John Larsen, with Fr. Setefano preaching the homily. Drawing on the image of Elijah’s encounter with God—not in fire or earthquake, but in a gentle breeze—Fr. Setefano reflected on the Marist journey in times of diminishment and uncertainty. Like Mary and the apostles at Pentecost, he said, Marists are called to move beyond fear, to trust the Spirit who renews and sends.
He reminded the assembly that the heart of vocation is to “remain in Christ’s love.” Vocation, he said, is not something earned but always received as a gift: “I have chosen you.” He also highlighted the prophetic witness of the newly professed, especially amid today’s challenges.
The homily concluded with a call to “step out of the cave, open the doors, and go forward,” confident that the Spirit guides, Mary accompanies, and Christ both chooses and sends.
Six Marists professed their vows perpetually, joyfully entrusting their lives to God and to the service of the Church: Jean Paul Dominique Dieme (Senegal), Lewis Kum Mvo and Joseph Arnaud Ondua (Cameroon), Peter Carde Matakarawa (Fiji), Lesley Kinani, and Leonard Wuiz Amora (Bougainville). Their “yes” resounds as a testimony of faith, courage, and hope for the Marist family and the wider community.
The celebration came to a joyful close with a festive banquet, where the Marist family gathered around the table in fraternity. In a moving moment, one of the newly professed expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of his companions, a reminder that vocation is never lived alone but always nurtured within the warmth of community and the grace of shared mission.
