Congregation Marks 40 Years of Consecrated Life and Welcomes New Vocations in Sacred Heart Cathedral, Lahore | Lahore – July 26, 2025
In a spirit of profound gratitude and joy, the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Chambery (CSJ) celebrated a significant milestone on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Lahore: the Final Profession of three sisters and the Ruby Jubilee (40 Years) of Religious Life of three senior sisters.
The Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by His Grace Archbishop Benny Mario Travas, Apostolic Administrator of the Archdiocese of Lahore, and was concelebrated by the Vicar General Rev. Fr. Asif Sardar, Rector of the Cathedral Rev. Fr. Rafhan Fayyaz, and numerous clergy, in the presence of religious sisters, CSJ Associates, youth groups, families, and the faithful.
A Dual Celebration of Commitment and Grace
The congregation rejoiced as three sisters—Sr. Flonia Hafeez, Sr. Mehwish Tariq, and Sr. Maria—made their Final Profession of the Evangelical Counsels of chastity, poverty, and obedience. Their commitment was received and confirmed by Regional Coordinator Rev. Sr. Shakila CSJ and Councilor Sr. Nasreen CSJ.
Simultaneously, the community honored the Ruby Jubilee of Sr. Shakila, Sr. Nasreen, and Sr. Permila, marking 40 years of faithful, selfless service in consecrated life.
The CSJ Region in Pakistan was deeply privileged to be joined by their General Superior, Rev. Sr. Dolores Lahr CSJ, and General Councilor, Rev. Sr. Cristina Gavazzi CSJ, whose presence underscored the global unity and mission of the congregation.
Liturgical Highlights and Witness of Vows
The liturgy was enriched by a magnificent Bible procession presented by postulants and candidates, with Scripture passages personally selected by the newly professed sisters. The Gospel was proclaimed by Rev. Fr. Basharat Siraj, followed by a spiritually uplifting and theologically rich homily by Archbishop Travas.
In his homily, the Archbishop reflected on the unconditional love of God, reminding all present that love in the Gospel sense is defined by total self-giving.
“Love is only complete when it is a gift of self,” he said, emphasizing the radical nature of religious vocation in today’s world.
The public profession of vows by the newly professed, in the presence of the General Superior and Regional Coordinator, was a powerful moment of grace. Their names were inscribed in the profession register as a visible witness to their lifelong “Yes” to Christ. The Jubilarians also renewed their vows, testifying to a life of enduring fidelity and joy in service to the Church.
The offertory procession, led by the families of the newly professed, added a deeply personal and familial touch to the liturgy.
Expressions of Gratitude and Joyful Fellowship
Before the final blessing, the congregation united in prayer to Our Lady, entrusting their vocations to her maternal care and asking for her intercession to remain ever ready to do God’s will with a generous heart.
Sr. Shakila CSJ, Regional Coordinator, extended a heartfelt vote of thanks to Archbishop Benny Mario Travas for his gracious presence and presiding over the Mass, to the clergy, CSJ Sisters, families, youth, and associates, whose participation made the occasion deeply meaningful.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, a festive lunch was served at St. Anthony’s Hall, where a cake-cutting ceremony was held in honor of the Jubilarians and newly professed sisters, joined by Archbishop Travas and the wider CSJ family.
St. Joseph, Protector of the Church and model of faithful service.
pray for us.
Share it:
