Days of grace and joy within the community

Published by Communication from the Vice-Province of Madagascar in Madagascar · Wednesday 23 Sep 2026 · 4 minutes
Tags: NU, MAD, 1377

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ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar - Despite the trials, difficulties, and shadows that can sometimes cross the path of a religious community and family, there are also moments of grace, joy, and hope. These moments are particularly precious for the young brothers in formation, who are gradually progressing on the path of their vocation.

1. The renewal of vows of scholastics

Following their spiritual retreat, eight scholastic brothers renewed their religious vows on September 5th. The celebration took place in the chapel of the Scholasticate of Antamponakatso, in the presence of Father Jean Joël RANDRIANARIVOMANANA, SMM, Superior of the Vice-Province of Madagascar.

The ceremony was attended by the nuns and monks present in Antamponakatso, as well as by their fellow members serving in the parishes. It was a moment of prayer, fellowship, and renewal of commitment to following Christ.

Of the eight brothers who renewed their vows, three had already completed their theological studies, while five others are continuing their studies in their second year. This step represents for each of them a new opportunity to deepen their religious commitment and grow in their vocation.

2-Welcoming new novices in Tamatave

After this celebration, the Provincial Father returned to Tamatave. On the evening of Monday, September 7, the community had the joy of welcoming three new novices: Ferdinand, Delin, and Théophile. On this occasion, the newcomers shared a time of " consecration to Jesus through Mary." They were also presented with symbols of their commitment, including a Bible and a cross, as well as " the complete works of Father de Montfort," symbols of the Word of God and self-giving in the footsteps of Christ. The welcoming ceremony was presided over and accompanied by Father Séraphin, Master of Novices, and Father Faniry, his assistant, who will be responsible for guiding them in this new stage of their vocational journey. Brothers serving in the Diocese of Tamatave were also present, as well as Brother Ignace, who had accompanied the novices during their spiritual retreat. This fraternal presence gave the event a particularly warm and communal atmosphere.

3-The first religious profession

On September 8, according to the tradition of our congregation, the parish of Sainte-Thérèse de Salazamay hosted the celebration of the first religious profession of the three novices.

Brothers Jordy, Nambinina, Harvena, and Thierry pronounced their first religious vows during a celebration surrounded by their families, parishioners, religious brothers and sisters, the Brothers of Saint Gabriel, and the Daughters of Wisdom. Representatives from the Analamalotra Major Seminary also participated in the celebration.

Father Jean Joël, Superior of the Vice Province of Madagascar and representative of the Father General, received the vows of the young confreres. In his homily, he powerfully recalled the value, beauty, and demands of consecrated life. He also emphasized the efforts, sacrifices, and fidelity necessary to advance on this path of vocation and to live fully the commitments made before God.

The celebration concluded in a spirit of fellowship with a shared meal in the parish hall. This convivial moment, carefully prepared by the associates of Tamatave, brought together representatives of the Church, the monks and nuns, as well as the families of the newly professed.

A journey that continues in faith and hope

At the end of these various events, we wish to express our deep gratitude to all those who have held these young people and the entire community in their prayers, as well as to those who have supported them directly or indirectly in the preparation and execution of these different stages.

These celebrations remind us that, despite difficulties and trials, the vocation continues to bear fruit. New young people respond to God's call, others deepen their commitment, and the community pursues its mission with confidence.

May Saint Louis-Marie Grignon de Montfort and the Virgin Mary continue to accompany us on this path, so that, in fidelity to our vocation, we may always advance with faith, courage and hope.

Together, let us continue the journey with Saint Louis de Montfort and Mary, in the joy of self-giving and in service to the mission.

Communication from the Vice-Province of Madagascar

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