Solemn Profession
of Sr. Marie Therese
November 5th was a joy-filled and grace-filled day for us as Sr. Marie Therese of the Sacred Heart of Jesus made her Solemn Profession of vows. Our Carmelite Provincial, Father Michael Berry, OCD, presided at the Mass where he was joined by Fr. Bonaventure Lussier, OCD, our Chaplain Fr. Mark O'Keefe, two monks from St. Meinrad Archabbey. Sr. Marie Therese's family, relatives, and friends from Canada and various parts of the US came to participate in the ceremony of her Profession and shared in our joy.
Our chapel was filled with Sister's family and friends
Sister Marie Therese made her vows to God in the hands of Mother Mary Joseph, her Prioress: "I, Sister Marie Therese of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, desiring to live faithfully with the Blessed Virgin Mary a life of allegiance to Jesus Christ, with my sisters as witnesses, into your hands, Reverend Mother Prioress, vow to Almighty God forever, chastity, poverty and obedience, according to the Rule and Constitutions of the Discalced Nuns of the Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel...”
Father Michael Berry veiled Sister Marie Therese with the black veil.
Mother Mary Joseph placed the crown on Sister Marie Therese.
Sister Marie Therese received the ring as a symbol of her espousal to Jesus, the Divine Bridegroom
Sister Marie Therese gave an embrace of peace to Mother Mary Joseph.
Our celebration continued with the reception at the monastery lodge after Mass. It was a special occasion to meet and share the festive meal with Sr. Marie Therese's family and friends.
Our faithful friends and benefactors of the local Filipino community prepared traditional delicious dishes and desserts which delighted everyone at the celebration.
The Filipino community, many in their traditional attire, made the celebration more joyous and memorable with their beautiful singing in English and Tagalog dedicated to Sr. Marie Therese and to the Nuns.
The Bridal Cake was specially made and decorated by the Sisters for this special occasion.
Please pray for Sister as she begins this new part of her Carmelite journey. May the gift of Sr. Marie Therese’s life, given to God and the Church through her sacrifice and prayer, continue to bring abundant blessings to the world.