The 13th and 14th of September 2025 at St. Francis Xavier Chapel, Colaba, Mumbai, was a time of overflowing grace for our Congregation, our families, and all who joined us in prayer. Two important milestones in our vocation journey were celebrated at the same sacred altar: our Perpetual Profession of Vows and our Ordination to the Diaconate.
Perpetual Profession
On 13th September 2025, we (Ajit Kerketta sss and Merinas Joyson sss) made our Perpetual Profession of Vows, consecrating our lives forever to God in our Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament. The vows were received by Fr. Peter Jayakathan SSS, the Provincial Superior of Kristu Jyoti Province, who also presided over the Eucharistic celebration.
In his inspiring homily, Fr. Peter spoke about “triumph with hope” that marks the journey of a religious vocation. He reminded us that fidelity to God’s call is not without struggles, but every trial becomes a victory when embraced with hope in Christ. Quoting our Founder, St. Peter Julian Eymard, he highlighted: “he will triumph over all with hope” (RR 90,2 OC vol. VII), underlining that the true esteem of our vocation lies in persevering faithfully, no matter the challenges, because our hope is anchored in the Lord who never fails.
This celebration was a profound witness of God’s faithfulness, and for us, it was both humbling and uplifting to profess our vows forever in the presence of our families, friends, and congregation members.
Diaconate Ordination
The next day, 14th September 2025, on the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross, three of us (Ajit Kerketta sss, Bidwan Sobhasundar sss and Merinas Joyson sss) were ordained deacons by Bishop Allywin, Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus of Bombay.
In his meaningful homily, Bishop Allywin urged us to embrace the Cross of Christ and to be mindful of our own weaknesses, so that, with compassion, we may help others who are struggling with theirs. His words were a timely reminder that the diaconate is not a position of honour but a ministry of humble service rooted in Christ’s sacrifice.
What made both celebrations truly special was the loving presence of our families, friends, and members of our congregation. Their support, prayers, and affection lifted our hearts and showed us how God’s grace flows abundantly through the people who walk with us. The choir added a heavenly touch, and every detail of the liturgies reflected the careful dedication and generosity of so many.
One Spirit, One Gratitude
To celebrate our perpetual commitment and ordination on consecutive days was more than a coincidence and it was a divine gift. One day we vowed to belong totally to Christ and His mission in the spirit of St. Peter Julian Eymard, and the very next, we were entrusted with the ministry of service at the altar as deacons.
Both celebrations were not just ceremonies but living encounters with grace. They strengthened our conviction that vocation is both a triumph and a journey of hope and lived in weakness yet made strong by Christ. We are eternally grateful to all our family members and all who were involved in our formation because their love and support made us who we are today.
With hearts overflowing, we entrust our future mission to the Lord and the prayers of all who shared these days with us. May we always remain faithful servants of Christ in the Eucharist, in the spirit of our Founder. May the Eucharistic kingdom come!
Deacons Ajit Kerketta sss,
Bidwan Sobhasundar sss
and Merinas Joyson sss
