Rwanda: 10 Novices made their First Vows to enter the Society of St. Francis of Sales

On Wednesday, August 16, 2023, also at the 208th birthday of Don Bosco, Ten (10) novices made their first religious vows. It was  Fr Pierre-Célestin Ngoboka, who received their vows and presided over the mass. The celebration took place at  Novitiate  St Luigi Versiglia in Rango (BUTARE).  Family members, Friends and other confreres were present.

During his homily, Father Pierre Celestin Ngoboka, the Provincial Superior of the Salesians of Don Bosco in the Africa of Great Lakes Vice-Province, said that they made the first religious vows to enter into the society of St.  Francis of Sales.

He invited them to practice what they had been studying the whole year of Noviciate, and to live according to the constitutions of the salesians of Don Bosco. He invited them to  pray, to live in poverty and to be patient.

Jean Damascene Imanishime stated, “We have completed our novice year, from now we are going to experience Salesian family life. Today, we are overjoyed as we have made our initial commitment to God.”

Mpawenimana Elise from Burundi stated that he is prepared to become an active member of the Salesian family, as he has chosen this way from the bottom of his heart.

He said, “I am very happy to have made the first vow in the Salesian congregation because I chose to give myself to God willingly, and the lessons they have given me have built me up.”

Father Pierre Celestin Ngoboka reminded them that devoting themselves to God is a righteous and joyous path, and he urged them to persevere in their commitment.

He said, “Devoting oneself to God is a good and joyful way, and it is beneficial for someone who desires to seek the power of the Holy Spirit because it involves a unique life of living with God.”

The ceremony was graced by various people including parents and relatives who came to show their support.

Notice that, after doing their first profession, all 10 news young salesians were admitted to continue their initial formation, in the Post-Noviciate of Don Bosco Kabgayi.