The Redemptorist family in India celebrated two significant milestones in the formation journey of its young members at the Novitiate House in Kunnumbetta, Wayanad, Kerala: the initiation of ten postulants into the novitiate on May 30 and the First Profession of seven novices on May 31.
Initiation into Novitiate
On the evening of May 30, the novitiate community gathered joyfully to welcome ten postulants into the novitiate. The ceremony was presided over by Fr. Edward Joseph, Provincial Superior of Bangalore Province; Fr. Poly, Provincial Superior of Liguori Province; and Fr. Henry Fernandes, Vice Provincial Superior of the Vice Province of Majella.
The ten young men, who have begun their formal novitiate formation, represent the vitality and growth of the Congregation in India. The group consists of five novices from Bangalore Province and five from Liguori Province. Numerous Redemptorist confreres participated in the celebration, offering prayers, fraternal support, and blessings as the candidates embarked on this important stage of their vocational journey.
The ceremony was carefully planned and beautifully organized, creating a prayerful and joyful atmosphere. It was a memorable occasion for the entire Redemptorist family and a hopeful sign for the future of the Congregation.
First Profession 2026
The following day, May 31, the Redemptorist family gathered once again in thanksgiving to celebrate the First Profession of seven novices. Their vows were received by the three Major Superiors: Fr. Edward Joseph (Bangalore Province), Fr. Poly (Liguori Province), and Fr. Henry Fernandes (Vice Province of Majella).
Fr. Edward Joseph, Provincial Superior of Bangalore Province 
Fr. Henry Fernandes, Vice Provincial Superior of the Vice Province of Majella 
Fr. Poly, Provincial Superior of Liguori Province 
Novices with Novice Master Fr. George Mathew 
The newly professed members were: Maria Rabin, Ankit Dung Dung, Khrawkupar, Peter Damian, Patras Hamsoy, Kranthi Dasari all from Bangalore Province, and Evner Euber Morais from the Vice Province of Majella.
The Novitiate Community played a vital role in nurturing these vocations under the leadership of Rector Fr. Geo Tom, Novice Master Fr. George Mathew, and Socius Fr. Binu. Their dedicated guidance and accompaniment helped prepare the novices for this important commitment to religious life.
Approximately 150 people attended the celebration, including Redemptorist confreres, priests, religious sisters, neighbors, parishioners, and well-wishers. The ceremony was also broadcast live through the Reds Media YouTube channel, enabling many others to participate virtually.
Thanks to the tireless efforts of the local community and organizers, the liturgy was conducted with great dignity and devotion. The celebration concluded on a deeply inspiring note, leaving all present strengthened by the faith, unity, and missionary zeal of the newly professed Redemptorists.
James Karri (Novice)
