CELEBRATING THE PERPETUAL PROFESSION OF RNDM SISTERS

Theme: “I Will Be Yours Forever”

The Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions India Central Province, gathered on 27 December 2024 to witness a momentous occasion – the perpetual profession of Sisters Rajnita Dung Dung, Anima Lakra, Dondor Mary Khar Shiing, and Promila Toppo into their sacred calling, at Our Lady Queen of the Missions, Salt Lake, Kolkata.  This day marked a profound step in their spiritual journey as they committed their lives wholly to Christ and His mission, embodying the Gospel in service, sacrifice, and love.

The celebration, guided by the theme “I Will Be Yours Forever,” commenced at 5:00 p.m. with a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided by His Grace, Rt. Rev. Archbishop Thomas D’Souza, Archbishop of Calcutta along with  eight other priests.  The hall was filled with the faithful, parents and family members, sisters and brothers from different congregations, friends, invitees and the RNDM sisters, all united in prayer and gratitude for the grace of this sacred ceremony. The presence of Srs Flavy Castellino and Bertina Mawlong from India South province added more joy to the occasion.  The harmonious choir, blending voices and hymns in various languages, added a heavenly resonance to the liturgy, reflecting the joy of heaven and earth.

The four Sisters; Rajnita Dung Dung, Anima Lakra, Dondor Mary Khar Shiing, and Promila Toppo—stood before the altar and their radiant faces glowing with divine joy and peace as they pronounced their perpetual vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience, a wave of reverence swept through the congregation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Archbishop Thomas D’Souza, in his homily, emphasized the need for missionaries to face challenges with courage, stand for justice, and sometimes go against worldly norms to fulfil God’s will. He referred the call to mission to Joshua’s courage in leading God’s people to the Promised Land. He encouraged the chosen sisters to stay strong, abide in God’s love, pray constantly, and be a blessing wherever they are sent.

After the Mass, a short felicitation ceremony was held in the auditorium, adorned with floral arrangements and vibrant decorations. The sisters were welcomed with garlands, followed by cutting of the cake. Special guests and the sisters’ parents were felicitated. The sisters’ profiles and heartfelt testimonies of their journeys were shared at that sacred moment, inspiring all present with their unwavering faith and resilience. Their stories highlighted the unique ways how God calls each of us to serve humanity, reminding everyone of the boundless possibilities of divine purpose. The auspicious evening ended with an agape dinner prepared for all.

Everyone left with hearts full of hope and joy, inspired to deepen their own commitment to Christ in their daily lives. The sisters expressed their deep gratitude to God, their families, and all those present.

Let us continue to hold Sisters Rajnita Dung Dung, Anima Lakra, Dondor Mary Khar Shiing, and Promila Toppo in our prayers as they embark on this beautiful chapter of their vocation. May their lives be a reflection of God’s light, guiding others to His love.

 

Sr. Prema Arockiam RNDM

Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions - Casa Generalizia Roma 00164 (IT) - Phone: 0039 06 6615 8400 - Email: gensec@rndmgen.org