On the eve of the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 7th September 2024, the Redemptorist Vice-Province of Afrique de l’Ouest joyfully celebrated the Perpetual Profession of Religious Vows of seven brothers from: Togo, Ghana, Benin, and Burkina Faso. These brothers are: SANOU Wenceslas, NOUNAGNON Abel Noutaï, ALLAGBE Emmanuel, OPOKU KUSI Dennis, DJAMTA Dieudonné, ABOTSI Samuel Perry, and KOSSOUHO Aboua Maurylle Boris. This celebration took place at Saint Gerard Formation House in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
In his homily, Very Rev. Fr. Nobila Olivier SAWADOGO, the Vice-Provincial Superior, reminded the brothers that through their perpetual profession, they fully embrace the consecration that forms the foundation of religious life, making them definitive members of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer.
He further emphasized that to remain in Christ is to acknowledge one’s dependence on Him, living in a constant and trusting closeness of heart. In doing so, Christ becomes an unfailing source of strength and fruitfulness within them. He also noted that religious life has become a mystery to many, largely because the life of Christ remains an enigma to them. The vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience are often seen as incomprehensible demands, especially when viewed in the light of their definitive nature.
Finally, he encouraged the brothers Emmanuel, Dennis, Samuel, Dieudonné, Abel, Maurylle, and Wenceslas to live out the evangelical counsels they had professed, reminding them of St. Paul’s words: “Certainly, I have not yet arrived; I am not yet at the end, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.” He prayed that the Lord, who has called and chosen them, would give them the strength to run the race to the finish, keeping them faithful throughout their lives, joyful in bearing fruit for the Gospel, for the joy of the Church, and for the salvation of the world. Amen.
On behalf of the newly professed, Bro. Abel Noutaï NOUNAGNON, expressed gratitude to God for the gift of their vocations. He also extended appreciation to the Vice-Provincial Superior and his council, the confrères, the various formators, and their families for their prayers, love, and support, which contributed to the success of this celebration.
After the Mass, the newly professed brothers were the center of celebrations of the day and joined others for a joyful photoshoot, their smiles reflecting the happiness of the occasion. Further, the joy continued through the sharing of a fellowship meal, along with music and dance of all to the greater glory of God!
Fr. Mark, CSsR.
Communication office
