The day before Pentecost Sunday, five women made their full vows to fully join the Missionaries of Charity at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC. The five sisters made their commitments before DC Carndinal-Archbishop Donald Wuerl and several hundred in attendance.
The Missionaries of Charity are renowned for their work in caring for the poor, elderly, and infirm around the world — pioneered by their foundress, Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta. So, on that day, after years of preparation and discernment they committed themselves to Christ and to serve His Church following the tenets of their foundress.
The vows these nuns make are lifelong commitments and are considered married to Christ.
Three of the five sisters, kneel in prayer.Each sister stands and announces her presence as her name is called.Cardinal-Archbishop Donald Wuerl explains the significance of their vows and the great work they do for the poor around the world.During the Litany of the Saints. The saints are invoked whenever someone is receiving the sacrament of Holy Orders.Cardinal-Archbishop Donald Wuerl incenses the altar area.Each nun does up to the altar and signs her name onto a certificate, much like a marriage.The local convent of the Missionaries of Charity pose for a group photo with the cardinal-archbishop.Sharing a laugh.Cardinal-Archbishop Donald Wuerl prays over one of the Missionaries of Charity.The life of service the Missionaries of Charity vow to perform.
