The 10^th of September 2016 was a day of joy for the Congregation of the Oblates of the Virgin in Nigeria, as two of her novices courageously made their first profession of the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. The brothers who made their profession are Luka Joshua, OMV and Jonah Adanu Gabriel, OMV. The ceremony which took place as St Mary Catholic Church, Tudun-Wada, Lugbe-Abuja, a parish served by the Oblates of the Virgin Mary in the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, was presided over by the Delegate Superior Rev Fr John Idio, OMV and was well attended by other Oblates Priest and brothers, The Associate Oblates of the Virgin Mary, family, friends and well-wishers of the professed brothers and the Parishioners of St Mary’s Tudun-Wada.

In his homily, Fr Idio who was full of gratitude to God for such a blessed day underline the need for us to allow our commitment to God to bear good fruits, since a tree is known by its own fruits. He encouraged the newly professed brothers who we courageous enough to make a bold step towards God in a world where many no longer want to commit themselves to God and many others no longer take their commitments seriously. He asked them never to grow weary of prayer so that God may strengthen them to bear good fruits by their words and exemplary life.

After the mass, there was a reception in honour of the newly professed brothers. It was an opportunity for all in attendance to celebrate and make merry in solidarity with them. The congregation is grateful to all who made out time to share in our Joy and all who contributed in any measure to the success of the day. Our prayers are with you as we ask you to continue to pray for our brothers that God may grant them the grace to persevere till the end.

Daniel Damisah, OMV