On September 9, 2024, at 6:30 a.m., during a solemn and joyous celebration, seven novices were officially accepted into the novitiate of the Mission in Sri Lanka, of the Province of St. Maximilian M. Kolbe in India. The event took place at the St. Francis Friary in Dalupotha, Sri Lanka. The entrance of the novices into the newly launched novitiate is a significant milestone for the growing Conventual Franciscan community in Sri Lanka.
The Minister Provincial, Friar Michael EARALY, presided over the Mass. Friar Raphael KANIYAMPALACKAL, the Novice Master, and Friar Mathew PURAYIDOM, the Pre-Novitiate Master, concelebrated. Other key figures of the mission were present, including Friar Simon ELINJELY, the Mission Director, Friar Sasun RAJAPAKSE, the Mission Econom, and Friars Ferdinand MELAPPILLY, Prince ILLINILKUMTHADATHIL, and Shibin PAYYAMBILLIL. Their attendance further highlighted the importance of this event for the local Conventual Franciscan community.
During the Mass, Friar Michael delivered an inspiring homily on the theme of “Communion in Mission.” He emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration within the Conventual Franciscan mission and how the entrance of the new novices symbolizes a new chapter in the Mission in Sri Lanka. He spoke of the novices as the “new face” of the Mission, marking a fresh beginning full of hope and promise.
The novices’ entrance into the novitiate signifies their deeper commitment to the Conventual Franciscan way of life and their readiness to embrace the challenges and joys of religious life. This event marks a pivotal moment in the history of the Mission in Sri Lanka, as it continues to grow and establish its presence in the region.
The celebration concluded with prayers for the novices as they begin this important phase of their spiritual journey, supported and guided by the Conventual Franciscan community.
Friar Patrick VARGHESE (KANNADAN), Provincial Secretary
