Confirmation vows taken

By DYLAN MURRAY
TWO men took their final vows on Saturday to become fully-fledged members of the Congregation of Christian Brothers.
Br Desmond Taboeya, from Goodenough Island in Milne Bay, and Br Francis Toliman, from East New Britain, made their final profession as Christian Brothers at St Joseph’s parish in East Boroko, the National Capital District.
The mass and the ceremony were witnessed by friends, family and other members of the Congregation’s Oceania Province (the congregation’s regional chapter).
Br Desmond and Br Francis professed their vows in the presence of the Oceania Province Leader, and delegate of the Congregation Leader, Br Gerard Grady.
They took vows of chastity, poverty, and above all commitment to the vocation.
Brothers who take their final vows conclude their time of initial formation and enter a lifelong commitment to the Brothers’ vocation.
“To each of you here today, your encouragement and love shown to our two brothers has enabled them to commit themselves to the church and the wider world,” said Br Grady.
He thanked the two new Brothers for taking their vows and choosing the Brothers’ vocation.
Br Francis said the religious formation takes 10 years, but it had taken him 15 years.
“I was with the Brothers for five years before I made profession,” he said.
Br Desmond thanked all the Brothers and other spiritual leaders who had supported them in the journey.
He thanked both his and Br Francis’ families for their blessings and encouragement.
Sir John Cardinal Ribat, who was the main celebrant of the mass, prayed that the two new Brothers would walk closer with Christ along the path they had now chosen.