Nigeria – Salesians and Daughters of Mary Help of Christians make perpetual profession for the first time in the country with a joint ceremony
Iju-Lagos, Nigeria – September 2024 – 8 September 2024 is a historic date for Nigeria, as for the first time in a joint ceremony the Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB) in the Africa Nigeria Niger Province (ANN), and the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA) in the Mary Mother of God Province (AFO), gathered to witness the perpetual profession of two of their members: Cecilia Chidimma Anadi and Dioudonne de Marie Mulongoy. The Holy Mass was celebrated in the chapel of Mary Help of Christians at the ANN Provincial House in Iju-Lagos, and was presided over by Fr Gianni Rolandi, SDB, who is making the Extraordinary Visitation to the ANN Province. In his homily, Fr Rolandi urged the candidates to remain firm in their vocation, offering them words of encouragement: "Be strong and do not be afraid". Attending the FMA and SDB celebration, the FMA Provincial, Sister Yvette Badini, Fr Peter Morba, Vice-Provincial ANN, family, friends and supporters. The celebration marked a significant milestone in the history of both congregations, underlining their common mission and the unity of the Salesian family.