At the Offertory each of
the newly professed placed around the Tabernacle a Mandala which
depicted their journey to this point Their Mandalas symbolized their
making Christ the centre of their lives, and were signs of solidarity
with each of the brothers in the Congregation.
The joy which each of
the new members displayed upon reception of the habit was a very moving
experience for all present. As a professed it brought tears to
the
eyes. In fact the
entire celebration was
one of joy, hope and life, as
one can see from the liturgy presented. The Readings, Hymns etc all
added special meaning and symbolism to the occasion.
Afterwards everybody
gathered in the dining room for a light meal. Here also the joy
experienced by our visitors and other religious congregations was one
of gratitude and thanks for the generosity of these men. A real
community atmosphere was evident and it made one extremely grateful to
be a Patrician Brother.
Then followed a siesta period. Later in the evening,
the community gathered for a beautiful B.B.Q. Here each of the
newly professed had the opportunity to express the significance of this
day for them and to give all present a window into their journey to
this point. It was an evening of true Patrician Brotherhood.
Truly a day of Great Blessings for our Congregation. ONE IN HEART AND MIND.
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