By: Emmanuel Ọpẹ́yẹmí ÀLÀÓ

The Passionist Sisters of St. Paul of the Cross celebrated a milestone event on November 23, 2024, as two of their members made their Perpetual Profession, while another sister made her First Profession of Vows at St. Sebastian Catholic Cathedral, Odo-Egbo, Ijebu Ode starting with the Holy Mass by 10:00am. The Profession was officiated by the Bishop, Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina; the chief Shepherd of the Diocese of Ijebu-Ode together with other co-celebrants.

Rev. Srs. Juliet Oluchi Onyeme CP and Grace Chizobam Nnanna CP professed their perpetual and final vows, committing themselves to a lifelong dedication to God and service to humanity. Cecilia Ujunwa Oti made her First Profession of Vows, marking the beginning of her journey as a Passionate Sister.

The homilist Fr. Roland Onuekwusi, CMF emphasized the significance of the celebrants’ profession, urging them to make the Lord their spouse, just as Samuel did, living in the temple and dedicating their lives to prayer and service. He highlighted the importance of their charism, which encompasses teaching, guidance, accompaniment, farming, recreation, and apostolate, all rooted in prayer. The celebrants’ vows of obedience to their congregation’s charism were underscored. According to the homilist, “put on a new look by embracing Christ and wearing His cross. Everyone sees the works of the Passionist Sisters in their relationships with others, particularly the vulnerable, they provide support, relief, and consolation.”

To the professing sisters, the homilist offered words of encouragement and admiration, saying, “Kudos and bravo for the resolution you have made! The Lord is your strength, and we are all with you in prayers.”

Rev. Sr. Juliet Emereonye CP; Delegate Superior, gave the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all present. She noted that with Sr. Oti’s profession, their congregation now has sixty-five sisters in twenty-one years, a testament to God’s blessings and guidance.

Special thanks were given to the families of the sisters, whom they affectionately call their ‘first benefactors.’ Their selfless gift of their daughters to God, the Congregation and the Church as a whole was acknowledged as a treasure beyond measure.

The Bishop congratulated the Religious for their tireless work in the Diocese and commended the entire family of the Congregation of the Passionist Sisters of St. Paul. He called out the names of the professing sisters, emphasizing that the title added to their names is not merely for fashion, but a symbol of the life they have chosen to follow. He explained the significance of the cross and the crown, urging them to wear the crown always and carry their cross spiritually with joy.

The Bishop encouraged the sisters saying “re-examine your charism, that everything is internally spiritual. Do not join the Priesthood or Religious life for material gain.” He advised priests and sisters “Please maintain a scandal-free life, avoiding arrogance and instead embracing humility”. The Bishop urged the sisters not to miss the joy of their congregation and community and thanked the family members present and requested that they pray not only for their own daughters but for every sister.

The event was a testament to the sisters’ devotion to their faith and their commitment to serving others. The congregation was filled with joy, love, and support for the sisters as they embarked on this significant milestone in their spiritual journey.

We congratulate Sisters Juliet and Grace on their Perpetual Profession and Sr. Cecilia on her First Profession of Vows. May God continue to guide and bless them on their path of service and devotion.