Last June 13, on the feast of Saint Anthony of Padua, the Lasallian Family was enriched by the first religious profession of 17 new Brothers. The celebration took place at the Inter-African Novitiate in Bobo-Dioulasso.
The young men, aged between 22 and 34, reflect the extraordinary vitality of vocations on the African continent. They come from various Districts in the French-speaking zone: Madagascar (7), Congo-Kinshasa (1), West Africa (3), Central Africa (4), and the Sector of Rwanda (2).
In the presence of Brother Rodrigue Toeppen, Visitor of the DILAO District (Lasallian District of West Africa), the novices read the formula of their vows and were officially welcomed into the Institute on behalf of the Superior General, Brother Armin Luistro. The organization and official documentation of the event were coordinated by Brother Élisée Lare, Secretary of the DILAO District, who shared and circulated the report of this important day.
Between Prayer and Community: Voices of the Protagonists
The novitiate, which lasted nearly two years, profoundly shaped these young Brothers. Brother S. Jean N. Randriarimalala describes this period as fundamental: “The novitiate was a beautiful experience of initiation into religious life for me. I leave with a rich treasure that I can share with others”. His testimony is echoed by Brother Patrice KI Laki, motivated by the desire “to dedicate my life to the education and accompaniment of young people, especially the most vulnerable”.
The international dimension of the novitiate was at the heart of Brother Vincent Bikai Yem’s experience. He recalls how living together with people from different cultures called them “to form one community, invited to live forgiveness, sharing, and listening”. This atmosphere of deep communion was also affirmed by Brother Ronaldino Ramaromanana T., who emphasized how the life of prayer deepened his relationship with God, making him feel “like part of a family, thanks to a beautiful fraternal atmosphere”.
A Fraternity That Becomes Mission
For all of them, consecration is a gift meant to be shared. Brother Expédie Mwamie Mazola reflects: “Fraternity is a gift from God and an essential expression of the Lasallian vocation”. This idea is echoed by Brother Joëlla Fanomezantsoa, who appreciated a formation “that prepares us to exercise our responsibilities well within the Institute, demonstrating true unity in diversity”.
Finally, gratitude for the journey completed emerges in the words of Brother Patrick Ziengle Tamot, who is thankful for the accompaniment that helped him “grow in every dimension,” and of Brother Deogratias Hafashimana, who, speaking on behalf of all, says he is ready “to continue joyfully in consecration to the Lord”, invoking the grace of fidelity.
For these 17 new Brothers, the time has now come for mission in their respective Districts. Having completed their novitiate, they will serve in schools and on the peripheries of the African continent, bringing to the most vulnerable young people the power of education and the living charism of Saint John Baptist de La Salle.
The entire Lasallian Family extends its heartfelt congratulations to them and wishes them joy and fidelity as they continue their journey of consecration.