On Tuesday, May 14, 2024, a number of friars from the Province of St. Maximilian M. Kolbe in India professed their simple or solemn vows. The professions were celebrated at St. Vincent’s Pro-Cathedral in Bhubaneswar, Odisha State, India.
Those who made their solemn profession were Friars Madan BALIARSINGH and Saroj NAYAK. Those who made their simple profession were Friars Vincent SINGH and Martin (Abhaya) NAYAK.
The Minister Provincial, Friar Michael EARALY, presided over the Mass. Some other esteemed friars who attended the ceremony were the former Minister Provincial of the Province of India, Friar Bonaventure KALLUVETTUKUZHIYIL; the Delegate of the Provincial Delegation in India (Andhra Pradesh–Telangana), Paul POTHANATTUVELIYIL; and the Director of the Mission in India (West Bengal) of the Province of St. Paul the Apostle in Malta and the Province of St. Maximilian M. Kolbe in India, Friar Sebastian VADAKEKATTEZHATH.
The well-attended ceremony was a testament to the strong bonds within the Conventual Franciscan community, with friars from various regions of India coming together in solidarity. The presence of devout religious sisters, and the proud parents of the newly professed friars, added to the atmosphere of joy and reverence.
In his opening address, Friar Michael EARALY expressed gratitude for the collective spirit of brotherhood and unity evident among the attendees. He highlighted the significance of communal support and shared values in fostering a sense of mission and purpose. The spiritual communion experienced during the ceremony reinforced the essence of fraternity, which lies at the heart of the shared mission.
Friar Patrick VARGHESE (KANNADAN), Provincial Secretary
