On Sunday, September 22, 2024, Friars Mateusz RYBKA and Mikołaj GÖPPINGER, of the Province of St. Anthony and Bl. James of Strepar in Poland (Cracow), made their temporary profession. They had both spent a year in the postulancy program in Gniezno, Poland, and another year at the novitiate in Smardzewice, Poland.
The two friars publicly vowed to live for one year in obedience, chastity, without anything of their own, and to faithfully observe the Conventual Franciscan life and Rule. Their profession ceremony took place at the Shrine of the Passion of Christ and the Mother of God in Kalwaria Pacławska, Poland. The Minister Provincial, Friar Mariusz KOZIOŁ, presided.
The Minister Provincial thanked both friars for responding positively to God’s call. He explained that they have embarked on a demanding journey which involves embracing the cross. At the same time, he stressed that true love, for both God and man, requires sacrifice and dedication.
“Dear friars, do not be afraid of dedicating yourselves totally to Jesus, of following the path that He has trod,” he explained. “Know that when He chooses you, He also gives you strength and grace. You are not alone in this. He gives you the Holy Spirit. He gives you brothers. They, too, will help you in this. The friars lift our spirits, but they are also here to purify us.”
Finally, the Minister Provincial congratulated the parents of the newly professed, thanked their formators for having prepared them for their vows, and asked the faithful gathered in the shrine to pray for new vocations and to give courage to those who respond to the Lord’s call.
Friar Jan M. SZEWEK
