Lay Franciscans profess vows

Three members of the laity have promised themselves to remain faithful to the Church and teachings of St. Francis of Assisi during their profession to the Order of Secular Franciscans, February 2.

Normelita P. Mosenabre made her temporary profession while Bro. Rey Anthony C. Abellon and Sis. Nanette V. Abellon made their permanent profession to the gospel life in the Secular Franciscan Order during the rite of profession and Holy Mass presided over by Archbishop Emeritus of Davao Fernando R. Capalla.

The ceremony, held at the Sto. Niño Chapel of the Third Order Regular of the Franciscan, was attended by the leaders of the fraternity, the family and friends of the honorees.

In his homily, Abp. Capalla said that the occasion is a moment of grace.

He said that seeing the three in their profession, it reminds people of their obligation to follow Christ.

“The fulfillment of God’s promise can be found in small people, in a simple way,” the archbishop said.

He added that the essence of secularity is a grace given to certain people like the order inspired by the Holy Spirit and the example of St. Francis of Assisi.

He said that they can discover God’s presence in doing good to one another.

The archbishop also hopes that the three will be able to fulfill their promises that they made through their profession.