Sr Lily's First Vows

On the feast of the Assumption, Sr Lily professed her First Vows as a Cistercian.

The profession ceremony takes place in the Chapter Room, where all listen to the words of St Benedict on the appropriate preparation the novice should undergo before seeking to commit herself to the monastic life.  The novice is asked what she seeks, and makes a petition in her own words, beginning with the traditional phrase "The mercy of God and the Order."  In her petition, Sr Lily elaborated upon this by asking God's mercy in making her offering fruitful for her community, her family, her Church and all her poor people, and the community's mercy, in accepting her offering and in prayer, patience, guidance and the support of a faithful witness.

Mother Sofia responded to her petition with a talk for the day, which may be found here>

Then comes the Profession of Vows and the signing of the parchment, the Promise of Obedience in the hands of the abbess, the reception of the black scaupular and leather belt, and a copy of the Rule of St Benedict.










After Mass, the newly-professed says goodbye to her companions in the novitiate, before being welcomed into the professed community at her desk in the common Scriptorium.   Looks like Sr Lily is all set to run the ways of the Lord!


More photos here>