First Profession – 2025: Visakhapatnam Province

On 14th June 2025, a wave of joy swept through the hearts of the Sisters of St Joseph of Annecy as we witnessed the sacred and solemn celebration of the First Religious Profession of our dear novices, Ganireddy Ambika and Ragolu Renuka. After months of deep prayer, reflection, and spiritual discernment, they stepped forward to embrace the consecrated life with hearts full of faith and purpose.

The ceremony was held at St Joseph’s Parish Church, Waltair, where the church—adorned with elegant floral arrangements—reflected the reverence and festive spirit of the day. The theme for the celebration, “Crossing the Thresholds and Embracing the New,” captured the essence of their spiritual commitment. The novices entered in solemn procession, each holding a lighted lamp, symbolising their readiness to offer their lives in wholehearted service to Christ. Accompanied by their parents, their Novice Mistress Sr Jeenat Jose, Provincial Superior Sr Rose, the concelebrants, and Rev. Fr Mariadas VC, the main celebrant, the moment was rich with grace and symbolism.

The ceremony began with a warm welcome by Sr Swarna Jose, Provincial Councillor, who introduced the novices and the significance of the occasion. The traditional lighting of the lamp followed, invoking Christ’s light and divine presence upon the gathering. Specially chosen readings and a thoughtful homily by Rev. Fr Mariadas enriched the liturgy, weaving together themes of vocation, faith, vowed life, prayer, community, and mission.

The pinnacle of the celebration came as the Provincial Superior received the vows of Ambika and Renuka, marking their formal consecration to God and to the Congregation. During the offertory, the newly professed made a symbolic presentation of their lives and gifts, offering them at the altar as a sign of their devotion and surrender.

Following Holy Communion, one of the newly professed shared words of gratitude—an expression filled with humility and heartfelt thanks. The choir, led melodiously by Sr Bala Joicy, lifted the hearts of all present with devotional hymns that added depth and beauty to the entire liturgical celebration.

After the Mass, a group photograph captured the moment with the main celebrant, concelebrants, Provincial, and team, followed by warm congratulations and good wishes. The joy continued with a cheerful cake-cutting ceremony and a festive meal shared among sisters, family members, relatives, and well-wishers—strengthening the bonds of spiritual and communal unity.

As Sisters Ambika and Renuka begin their journey in religious life, we pray that they may live out their vocation with steadfast love, joy, and faithfulness. May their lives be a radiant witness to the beauty of consecrated life, and may they find fulfilment in their mission of serving the Lord and His people.