FIS Profession and Investiture
Don Bosco Formation Center, Cebu Philippines. In the morning of the 6th of May as the Salesian family celebrated the Feast of St. Dominic Savio two novices of the Philippines South Province and Pakistan delegation, John Michael Mahinay and Noel Clement made their first religious profession and solemn investiture. They were accepted in the congregation by Rev. Fr. Godofredo Atienza, SDB (Provincial Superior). The families, Salesians and members of the Salesian family witnessed the celebration. A simple lunch followed.
Bro. Noel Clement share his reflection: I felt very happy after the celebration of my profession. First, I acknowledge that it is the grace of God who called me and then I gave my “Yes!” to the Lord. All the formators were the instruments in this Novitiate journey. I also felt a strong responsibility as I received three external signs — the cassock, the commemorative medal of Don Bosco and the Salesian Constitutions. Among these three the most important is the rule of our society. The religious profession took only few minutes but I have to renew it daily throughout my life in order to faithfully persevere. The life of a Salesian is not easy but it is indeed joyful and God’s way for me to holiness. I am challenged to be an authentic Salesian in these modern times by witnessing Christ through my life, because now I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.
(contributor: Bro. Noel Clement, SDB)
