Renewal of vows in Kawambwa, Zambia

It is a common practice for temporary professed brothers in our congregation to renew their vows before they expire. This practice is a good and holy one in that the brothers constantly renew their dedication to God in their vocation. Through Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Communion we were given over to God for His service. We are His and He is ours and this mutual exchange of our hearts must be renewed daily.  In fact, the reception of Holy Communion has this renewal as one of its goals.  Not only do we receive our Lord into our soul in this precious gift, we also renew our total self-giving to God through its reception. As we yearly renew our total commitment (vows) to our Lord, we allow Him to consume every part of our life as if a blazing fire consumes a log.

Answering the divine call

On April 29, 2023 on the feast of St. Catherine of Siena, five of our brothers renewed their vows in Kawambwa, Zambia. Br. Peter Malu, Br. Alfred Kaluba, Br. Nathan Kawele, Br, Michael Kabwe and Br. Prosper Chungu vowed to the Almighty God to live their life in chastity, poverty and obedience. The celebration took place at the Chapel of the sisters of the Child Jesus, St. Mary’s convent. The renewal of vows was witnessed by the sisters of the Child Jesus. The day started with a recollection for the five brothers which took almost the whole day, then followed by mass. During mass, the five brothers renewed their vows. Brother Videlis Minyega CMM acted on behalf of the Superior General to accept the renewed vows of the temporary professed brothers while Brother Daniel Nyakundi and Father Fredrick Mpasa were witnesses. It was a joyful day indeed to see their radiant, smiling faces in answering the divine call and giving all to follow Christ more closely. Father Fredrick gave a wonderful homily. In his Sermon, he encouraged the brothers to live their lives in holiness as God is holy. He also encouraged us all to be people of prayer as prayer is the only source of strength we have.

Brothers and sisters

After the celebration of mass, the brothers, sisters and priests gathered together to congratulate and share a meal with the brothers who had renewed their vows. The celebration ended with a word of prayer from Fr. Isaiah Mwelwa.

Commitment in serving

What touched me most is the willingness of the brothers to say Yes for another year. By signing their certificate, they committed their lives in service of God and humanity which is our core aspect of life as Brothers. May God bless them as they start anew journey in their lives.

Congratulation to our brothers who renewed their vows.

Brother Videlis Minyega CMM, community superior Kawambwa, Zambia