First Profession of Sr. Mary Ana of the Divine Mercy, OP

This morning, on the Solemnity of Christ the King, our novice Sr. Mary Ana of the Divine Mercy placed herself under Christ's reign in a more intimate way through the profession of simple vows.

Sister is from Massachusetts and many family and friends were able to witness this beautiful event. Fr. David Adiletta, OP was the main celebrant with Abbot Xavier Connelly, OSB of St. Benedict's Abbey, Fr. Roger Landry, and Fr. Joseph Dolan of St. Bernards Parish (Sister's home parish) concelebrating. Two of Sr. Mary Ana's friends, Kyle Eads and Br. Jerome OSB, served the Mass with the help of our good friend Mr. Richard Sofie, OP. 

The evening before the big event Novice Mistress Sr. Joseph Maria and Prioress Sr. Mary Martin walked through the ceremony with Sr. Mary Ana, working out details and refreshing their memories of what happens when.

We weren't able to get great pictures of Sister's actual profession since it took place in the outside chapel, but hopefully we'll have pictures from others to share with you later! First Profession ordinarily takes place within the nuns' choir, but for sisters who have too many family and friends to fit at the choir grille the Rite of Profession may take place in the outside chapel. 

After Mass there was a reception in St. Dominic's Lecture Hall downstairs. The guests were able to greet the newly professed sister and enjoy some refreshments.