On the Feast of Christ the King, joy filled the Cathedral of St. Mary and St. Anne in Cork as the Presentation Brothers Community celebrated Br. Simon Fernandes’ Perpetual Profession of Vows.
Bishop Fintan Gavin was the chief celebrant for the occasion. His Eminence Joseph Cardinal Coutts, Archbishop Emeritus of Karachi in Simon’s homeland of Pakistan, was also present at the Mass. Br Simon’s family and friends travelled from the United States, Pakistan, Britain and across Ireland to be there, joining young people and parishioners connected with young adult ministry in the Diocese of Cork & Ross and the Presentation Brothers L.E.A.F. Project at Mardyke House.
In his homily, Bishop Fintan said: “Today, Brother Simon pledges poverty, chastity, obedience - not as constraints, but as pathways of love that mirror Christ’s kingship. In other words, these vows are shepherding - communion and reconciliation made visible”
Br. Simon Fernandes made his Perpetual Profession of Vows in the Cathedral of St Mary and St Anne
He invited Br. Simon to let these vows shape a life of joy: “let poverty keep you light of step and rich in trust; let it draw you near to those the Lord loves first. Let chastity make your heart spacious, so that young people, fellow brothers, and strangers find in you a steady, generous, joyful love. Let obedience keep your ear close to Christ, in the Word, in your brothers, and in the people you serve, so that your freedom becomes fruitful.”
Br. Simon made his Perpetual Profession of Vows with the Presentation Brothers Community.
Br. Simon greets friends and family following his Profession.
