Shillong 9th May: The Salesians of Don Bosco witnessed a joyful and prayerful occasion today at Sunnyside Novitiate as the Vestition Ceremony of the novices was held during a solemn Holy Mass. A total of 34 novices—25 from INS and 9 from ING—officially received the religious habit as they prepare for their First Profession scheduled for May 24.
The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Fr. John Zosiama, the Provincial, in the presence of Fr. Paul O. Lyngkot, the Novice Master and community members.
The vestition ceremony marks an important stage in the life of a Salesian novice. By receiving the religious habit, the novices publicly express their desire to follow Christ more closely in the spirit and charism of St. John Bosco. It is a period of deeper formation, prayer, discipline, and discernment before taking their first religious vows.
Among the novices preparing for profession, INS will have two Salesian Brothers, while ING will have three Salesian Brothers, reflecting the continued growth and importance of the Salesian Brotherhood vocation within the congregation.
In his homily, Fr. John Zosiama encouraged the novices to remain faithful to their calling and to cultivate a life rooted in prayer, humility, and service to the young, especially the poor and marginalized. He reminded them that religious life is not merely about wearing the habit but about becoming living witnesses of Christ through dedication and sacrifice.
The atmosphere at Sunnyside was marked by joy, gratitude, and hope as the novices took this significant step in their religious journey. The presence of the Salesian community and well-wishers added warmth and encouragement to the celebration.
The First Profession ceremony on May 24 is expected to be another grace-filled moment as the novices formally commit themselves to the Salesian way of life through the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.
Reported by INS Correspondent.
