The Ursuline Franciscan Sisters of the North East Province marked their Profession Day with a solemn and joyous celebration at Holy Cross Church, Dimapur on April 25, 2025. Themed “Called to Love and Serve,” the event underscored the Sisters’ commitment to their vocation of faith and service.
Delivering welcome address, Rev. Sr. Juliana Pereira, Provincial Superior of the North East Province, extended gratitude to dignitaries, priests, Sisters, and members of the congregation. She acknowledged the parents of the Sisters for nurturing vocations and offering their daughters to the service of the Church.
The Eucharistic celebration was led by Most Rev. Joachim Walder, Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Aizawl, and concelebrated by 41 priests. In his homily, Bishop Walder described the vocation as a divine gift, both to the individual and to the Church, emphasizing, “You belong entirely to God, and in this belonging lies your true joy.” He encouraged the Sisters to remain steadfast in their commitment and rooted in Christ.
During the ceremony, 14 novices made their Temporary Profession, while five Sisters pronounced their Perpetual Profession. Through the evangelical counsels of chastity, poverty, and obedience, the Sisters dedicated themselves to God and the service of humanity. Despite coming from diverse cultural and regional backgrounds, their unity in mission was a testament to their shared dedication to love and serve.
Following the religious ceremony, a felicitation program was held to honor the newly professed Sisters. Highlights of the ceremony included a welcome for the Bishop, a greeting song by choir, and introductions of the newly professed by the novices. Sr. Juliana Pereira offered congratulations, praising the Sisters for their faithful and courageous response to God’s call.
Representing the newly professed, Sr. Rene Rita expressed gratitude to formators, supporters, and those who had contributed to making the event memorable. The celebration concluded with an “agape meal”, bringing together families, clergy, and the faithful to extend their best wishes to the newly professed. The day was marked by an atmosphere of joy, spiritual renewal, and community.