Six sisters of the Congregation of Little Way of St. Thérèse received their religious habits and made their first profession of vows during a solemn Eucharistic celebration at St. Michael Church in Hnaring, Hakha Diocese, on October 21, 2026.

The ceremony marked an important milestone in their spiritual journeys as they committed themselves to a life of prayer, service, and dedication to God.

Bishop Lucius Hre Kung of Hakha Diocese presided over the Holy Mass and delivered the homily. The celebration was attended by 17 priests, one deacon, and 35 religious sisters, along with catechists from the Hnaring zone and approximately 900 faithful. Sr. Maria Van Nei Kim, Superior General of the St. Thérèse Little Way Sisters, also participated in the celebration.

The Six Sisters

The six sisters who received the religious habit and made their first profession of vows were:

• Sr. Therese Kee Len of Mindat Diocese
• Sr. Catharine Biak Nuam of Hakha Diocese
• Sr. Julie Ngun Tin Par of Hakha Diocese
• Sr. Mari Therese Thang Yong of Mindat Diocese
• Sr. Mary Ling Li of Mindat Diocese
• Sr. Magdalena Tin Kho Nei Lhing of Kalay Diocese

‘A Response to God’s Call’

In his homily, Bishop Lucius reflected on the Gospel account of the rich young man who approached Jesus and asked what he must do to inherit eternal life. After learning that the young man had observed the commandments from his childhood, Jesus looked at him with love and invited him to go further by selling his possessions, giving to the poor, and following Him.

The bishop explained that Christ’s invitation highlights the sacrifice, commitment, and complete trust in God required of those who seek to follow Him more closely.

“Religious life is a response to God’s call and requires a willingness to place the Kingdom of Heaven above worldly ambitions,” Bishop Lucius said.

The Importance of Prayer

Bishop Lucius emphasized the importance of prayer for the six sisters as they began their religious life. He noted that they had spent eight days in prayer to prepare for receiving their religious habits.

“Their lives are dedicated to God, and they need to be prayed for,” the bishop said, warning that those who choose a life of service to God will encounter many temptations and challenges.

To illustrate the importance of preparation and prayer, Bishop Lucius referred to a rocket launch in the United States. He explained that significant undertakings require careful preparation, patience, and prayer, just as the sisters must prepare themselves spiritually for their mission.

Trusting in God’s Providence

Drawing on the teachings of Jesus, the bishop reassured the congregation that God never abandons those who trust in Him. He recalled Christ’s words about the value of even the smallest act of kindness toward His disciples and His assurance that God’s children are worth more than the sparrows.

“Remain confident that God will provide for your needs as you serve His people,” Bishop Lucius encouraged the sisters.

A Warning About Technology

Bishop Lucius also addressed the challenges facing young people in today’s digital age. He observed that many are increasingly attracted to technology, material wealth, and worldly achievements, sometimes neglecting spiritual values and the promise of eternal life.

He cautioned that excessive dependence on artificial intelligence (AI), particularly the expectation of obtaining immediate answers and solutions, could weaken patience and discourage young people from making time for prayer and reflection.

‘A Burning Lamp’

Reflecting on the image of a burning lamp, Bishop Lucius said that religious sisters must remain spiritually alive so that they can bring Christ’s light to others. Just as a lamp is useful only when it gives light, consecrated persons must maintain a close relationship with God through prayer, Scripture reading, and faithful service.

He also recalled St. Paul’s teaching on dying to oneself so that others may live, explaining that religious life involves setting aside personal desires and embracing God’s will.

“Following Jesus means taking up His cross daily,” the bishop reminded the congregation, urging the sisters to read the Holy Bible, imitate the hearts of Jesus, the apostles, and the saints, and remain faithful to their vocation.

A Call to Prayer

Concluding his homily, Bishop Lucius called on the faithful to pray that the six sisters would continually put on Christ and become instruments of God’s love. He expressed hope that, through prayer, humility, and perseverance, they would remain faithful to their commitment and become a light leading others toward salvation.

By RVA Falam Chin Service