Beginning of novitiate in India

From 19 to 25 July 2020, the Shobhana Shaakha community made a 7-day retreat on the theme "We are called to become the fragrance of Christ / called to become Ambassadors for Christ".

Br David and Br Budu were particularly conscious of the importance of this retreat because it was the preparation to enter the novitiate, which is a school for growing in an intimate relationship with Christ, following the steps of St. Michael Garicoïts, our Father and Founder. On July 27, the community carried in procession the statue of Our Lady of Betharram, prayed the Rosary and the Vespers for the Congregation and for the world, affected by the pandemic that is spreading more and more in Bangalore and across the rest of India. The solemnity of the Blessed Virgin of Betharram was celebrated privately within the community, because it is not allowed yet to have public celebrations.

During the Eucharistic celebration presided over by Fr Siluvai Antony SCJ, Superior of the community, two postulants, Br. Budu and Br. David, officially began the canonical year of Novitiate. We invoke the Blessed Virgin of Betharram to bless and protect the novices, the Congregation and all those who are suffering from the pandemic.