By Teresa, fcJ
September 1st 2018 turned out to be, in London, a lovely sunny day – the end of summer and a perfect setting for my first vows ceremony which took place at the church of Our Lady Immaculate & St Frederick in Limehouse, London.
The celebrations began the evening before with a ceremony to welcome me into the Body of the Society. This was a lovely prayer time which reflected the way in which God had brought me to this point in my life.
The Mass on September 1st was celebrated by a priest I had worked with on one of my Apostolic experiences during Novitiate and by our Parish Priest. As 12.30 approached, the congregation were treated to a beautiful rendition of Gabriel’s Oboe to help us all prepare for the celebration which was about to begin.
For the readings, I chose Jeremiah 29:11-14, For I know the plans I have in mind for you, Colossians 3:12-17, You are to be clothed in heartfelt compassion… and the Road to Emmaus from Luke 24. This Gospel passage is one of my favourites (though I do have quite a few!) and in particular it speaks to me of companionship: Jesus’ with us, ours with Jesus and ours with one another. After a prayerful singing of Veni Sancte Spiritus, I made my profession and my vows were received by Sr. Claire fcJ, our General Superior, witnessed by Lynne fcJ and Betty fcJ.
Following Mass, we gathered in the hall of Poplar Catholic church for a reception. Special thanks to everyone involved in each part of the celebrations. It was a wonderful day and one of my lasting memories is that I felt enwrapped in prayer.
() First vows of Teresa, fcJ in London
