On August 6th, the feast of the Transfiguration of Jesus on Mount Thabor, Sr. Marie Claire, Marie Nadège et Marie Mélanie experienced a very real form of transfiguration when they pronounced their final vows of poverty, chastity and obedience in the Congregation of Marie Auxiliatrice. The ceremony took place in the presence of the Vicar General of the diocese and the christian community of Bafossam, the recently elected General Superior and the sisters of their respective communities, as well as the families and friends of the three sisters. At the heart of the Church, the ceremony was a public witness and commitment to the consecrated life, a life of loving attachment to Christ and wholehearted service of his people.
The scripture readings chosen were taken from Isaiah 43, 1-5 “You are precious in my eyes and I love you” and the response in St. Paul’s letter to Timothy (1, 12) : “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has given me strength and who has judged me faithful enough to call me into his service..” The Gospel of John 15, 9-17 is an invitation to enter into a new friendship with the Lord and to “remain in my love”.
As each sister pronounces her vows into the hands of the General Superior, as a siggn of her lifelong commitment, she receives the ring on which are inscribed the words “You have chosen me; here I am, send me.” .
Sr Marie Thérèse