The First Profession of 21 Novices of the Montfort Brothers of St. Gabriel – A Milestone of Faith:

The First Profession of the 21 Novices belonging to the seven Indian Provinces took place on 18 April 2026 at St Gabriel’s Novitiate in Sitagarha, Jharkhand, India. The air within the chapel was thick with a sense of sacred anticipation as twenty-one young men prepared to take a definitive step in their spiritual journeys. The First Profession of the 21 novices taking their vows was more than just a ceremony; it was a profound 'yes' to a life of service, poverty and devotion in the footsteps of St Louis Marie de Montfort.

Standing before their superiors, families and the wider Gabrielite community, these novices transitioned from seekers to consecrated religious, formally joining the international mission of the Montfort Brothers of St Gabriel.

The essence of the three vows:

By professing their first vows, these 21 Brothers committed themselves to the evangelical counsels of Poverty, Celibacy, and Obedience, opting for a life of service in communities. The ceremony's theme was “Commitment to follow Jesus”.

Poverty: Living simply and sharing all things in common to mirror the humility of Christ.

Chastity: Dedicating their hearts exclusively to God and the service of humanity.

Obedience: To seek the will of God through the guidance of their community and in response to the needs of the mission.

This commitment is symbolised by the presentation of the Religious habit and the constitutions of the institute. The Rosary, Crucifix and Bible serve as the daily 'uniform' and 'roadmap' for their new lives.

The First Profession Mass began at 9:30 am, officiated by the Right Reverend Bishop Anand Jojo, Bishop of Hazaribagh. After Mass, there was a short celebration at St Gabriel's House, followed by lunch for guests. It was a very meaningful celebration for everyone who attended.

Walking in the Footsteps of Montfort:

The Montfort Brothers are renowned globally for their dedication to education and the empowerment of young people, particularly those on the margins of society. For these 21 newly professed Brothers, the mission is now clear:

1.         Educational Excellence: Bringing not just knowledge, but also heart and hand to the classroom.

2.         Social justice: Acting as a "voice for the voiceless" in various social initiatives.

3.         Marian Devotion: Living the Totus Tuus (Totally Yours) spirituality and seeking Jesus through Mary.

 A Global Celebration:

The diversity among the 21 Brothers reflects the truly international nature of the Montfortian family. The atmosphere was one of immense joy as they received their mission crosses.

'To know, love and serve God is the only thing that matters in this world.' — St Louis Marie de Montfort

The ceremony concluded with a chorus of hymns and the Te Deum, a traditional prayer of thanksgiving. While this First Profession marks the end of their novitiate, it is truly the beginning of a lifelong adventure of faith. These 21 men are now stepping out into the world not as individuals, but as Brothers, bound by a shared charisma to 'set the world on fire' with God's love.

Congratulations to the 21 newly professed Brothers! May your journey be filled with the grace of the Holy Spirit and the protection of the Star of the Sea.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Bro. B. A. Kurian,

St. Gabriel’s House, Sitagarha.