Committing to Christ in the SSMI Province of Christ the King — The commitment continues

Last year, we journeyed with one young woman, who chose to explore her commitment to Christ by entering the Congregation of the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate, becoming a candidate. Emily Schietzsch, of Edmonton, was later joined in the candidacy by Oresta Svorak, and on June 8, 2011, they were both received into the novitiate -- they became novices.

Clothing Day

The rite of reception into the Novitiate is traditionally known as Clothing Day. In earlier years, the candidate received her habit that day, the same as for professed Sisters in all respects, except they would not have received the cross, which was worn around the neck. Today, candidates receive a dress which is different from the habit of the professed, but which will distinguish them as members of the Community a degree further than candidacy.

On June 8, 2011, each of our new novices experienced this day uniquely. We’ll let them each tell their story:
(Also see photo galleries on each page.)

Novitiate

When a candidate has been admitted to the novitiate program, she faces a two-year period of more intense training, divided into two one-year periods of different character. One year, the canonical year, is of more academic/reflection-oriented instruction in Community life, including an introduction to the Constitution of the Congregation, the history of the Congregation, the vows, and spirituality and prayer. The apostolic year is one of mission practicum, where the novice will be assigned to more active engagement with any number of ministries carried out by the Sisters. Through the challenges that this year presents, the novice, and the Community with her, will discern her gifts and specific ministerial call.

Our novices were given their first apostolic assignments at the Clothing Day dinner. Read their stories to find out where.

Renewals of Temporary Vows

On August 15, 2011, Divine Liturgy was celebrated at 8:00 am in the Sisters’ chapel at St. Joseph’s Home in Mundare, AB, by Fr. Daniel Wach, OSBM, with Srs. Rose Luby and Oresta Svorak, novice, leading the responses. Sr. Charlene Belay renewed her vows, after her first year of temporary profession, at the moment just prior to the distribution of Holy Eucharist. Sr. Marijka Konderewycz, Provincial Counsellor, stood in behalf of the Provincial to officially witness Sr. Charlene's commitment. Guests present included Sisters from the Hospital residence, Srs. Esther Kurylo and Petronella Dybka, of Edmonton Southside, Srs.Marijka Konderewycz, Provincial Counsellor, and Bonnie Komarnicki, of Saskatoon, as well as Sr. Charlene's Uncle & Aunt from Regina. Brunch was served after the Liturgy, prepared by Sr. Martha, superior of St. Joseph’s Home. Sr. Martha offered words of congratulations to Sr. Charlene on behalf of all, and all sang “Многая Літа”.

Above left: Sr. Charlene, who renewed vows, and Sr. Marijka Konderewycz, Provincial Counsellor, in Sisters’ chapel at St. Joseph’s Home, Mundare, AB. Above right: The Sisters congregated in chapel.

In Winnipeg, at Bethany Home, also on August 15, 2011, Sr. Nadia Tkaczuk also renewed her temporary vows – her second renewal. (No photos available.)