The Missionary Sisters of Mary Mother of the Church (MSMMC) celebrated the addition of ten new members who recently made perpetual vows, committing to a lifetime of service within the congregation.
The ten sisters who made perpetual vows are Sr. Meron Acen from Moroto Diocese, Sr. Maria Faidha Katushabe, Sr. Lucia Katushabe, Sr. Maria Afra Tumuheise, Sr. Immaculate Tumwehe, Sr. Marycent Oshabahewa, Sr. Evas Musiimenta, Sr. Nancy Bridget Thorach, Sr. Christine Twebazemukama, and Sr. Letitia Akankwasa.
During the ceremony, the sisters pledged chastity, poverty, and obedience, demonstrating their commitment to serving the church and respecting its leaders, including the Bishop and Superior General.
As part of the ritual, the sisters were adorned with a habit rosary on the left side of the cincture, symbolizing their consecration to Mother Mary. They also received a finger ring worn on the left-hand finger, signifying their role as servants following the example of Jesus Christ. Additionally, the sisters were presented with books of the liturgy of the hours and prayers of the church.
The perpetual vows ceremony coincided with the Golden Jubilee celebration of the first four sisters of the congregation: Sr. Ernestina Akullo from Lira Diocese, Sr. Rose Waro from Nebbi Diocese, Sr. Elizabeth Mandera, and Sr. Nicholine Acen Atyang. Sr. Georgia Kyenda also marked her silver jubilee.
Bishop Sanctus Lino Wanok, the Ordinary of Lira Diocese, presided over the mass and encouraged the sisters to lead a humble and simple life, prioritizing prayer over sleep. He emphasized the importance of religious men and women wearing their uniforms as a silent form of evangelization.
Bishop Sabino Ochan Odoki of Arua Diocese commended the growth and flourishing of the MSMMC congregation, encouraging parents to support and guide their children towards a religious vocation.
Sr. Nickoline Acen Atyang, one of the first four sisters celebrating their Golden Jubilee, urged parents to nurture and guide their children responsibly. Reflecting on her own journey, she emphasized the pivotal role her parents played in shaping her vocation, having chosen it as early as primary five.
On December 8th, 2023, the MSMMC congregation witnessed the profession of 10 new sisters, contributing to the expansion of their community.
