Investiture of Holy Habits: a visible sign of a life transformed by the Gospel…

In the month of December, 14 of our novices received the holy habit for the first time. This is an occasion of great joy for our province and for our congregation!

On December 6, 10 novices received the habit at the National Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC. A week later, on December 14, four contemplative novices were also invested in our contemplative monastery in Brooklyn, New York.

Fr. Andrew Whiting, IVE, presided over the Solemn Masses for both celebrations. In his homily on December 6^th, Fr. Whiting emphasized that the taking of the religious habit is a visible sign to the world of the life upon which they are embarking: a life totally consecrated to God.

Citing various Church documents, especially from the pontificate of St. John Paul II, he said:

“At its core, the habit represents a profound commitment to God. It signifies that the religious has dedicated her life to serving God and living out the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience. This consecration is a public declaration of faith and a visible sign of a life transformed by the Gospel…

- - - The religious habit is designed to be simple and modest, reflecting the values of poverty and humility that are central to religious life…
    - The habit also signifies a commitment to chastity, reflecting the religious sister’s dedication to living a life of celibacy for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven…[it] is a positive affirmation of a total self-giving love to God and the community…
    - Wearing the habit signifies religious obedience, which involves a complete dedication to following God’s will as expressed through the Church and the directives of the religious institute of the Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matara…
    - [Finally,] the veil signifies a woman’s total dedication to God, akin to the spousal relationship between Christ and the Church.”

These novices are distinguished in the first stages of religious life by their white veil. Once they have formally professed religious vows, they will wear a blue veil.

We ask you to join us in giving thanks to God for these new vocations and in praying for their perseverance in seeking God’s will!