Dimapur, April 20(MExN): With the perpetual profession of Sr. Flora Ashila (Pungro) Sr. Christina Tamut (Arunachal Pradesh) Sr. Geeta Lakra, (Assam) and temporary profession of Sr. Lily Horo (Assam) and Sr. Sushmita Horo, the Ursuline Franciscan Congregation added five more members to it fold. Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Nagaland, solemnized the occasion which was held at Assisi Convent, Khermahal, Dimapur, on April 19. Rev. Sr. C .J. Mary, UFS, Provincial Superior, warmly welcomed the celebrant, concelebrants, all the Sisters and in particular Sr. Shanti D’Souza, the Provincial Superior of North Province, all the invited guests, particularly the parents and relatives of the Sisters and Novices and thanked them for offering their daughters to the service of the Church. Bishop James in his introduction said that all the faithful are called by God and invited to return to God some measure what they have received from God. These Sisters who are making the profession are offering themselves totally to God and to His service in full freedom. In his homily the Bishop applauded the Sisters for their readiness to offer themselves to God and to the Church in the religious Franciscan family. The real joy comes from self-donation, self gift which is relational. Only in a relational encounter with persons, do we have joy. The religious commitment that the Sisters make is the best and highest form of self donation, self gift first to God and for others. The newly professed sisters expressed gratitude to God and to all those present through their songs and words of gratitude. Sr. Alphonsa Matevei and Rene Rita anchored the program. Mr. Jacob Taggu, brother-in law of Sr. Christina Tamut spoke on behalf of the parents and relations. Sr. Ashila Flora, perpetually profession proposed vote of thanks. The programme ended with a felicitation and the community meal was served to all. This was stated in a press release issued by Fr. Thomas Toretkiu Bishops Secretary, Kohima.
