In this section

Brother Presentation Profiles upcoming events Get Involved Take a Year Out

First Professions in Killarney

Two young men from Ghana have formally joined the Presentation Brothers during a special ceremony in Killarney (Wednesday, 5th September 2012). Augustine Dassah (29) and Callistus Nero (28) both from Ghana made their First Profession as Presentation Brothers in the presence of a large congregation of local people and well wishers during Mass at the Franciscan Friary.

Left: (l to r) Br Barry Noel (Novice Master), Br Callistus, Br Augustine, and Br Martin Kenneally (Congregation Leader) before the ceremony in Killarney.

Images from today's ceremony are available in the Photo Gallery.

The two men have been studying at the Presentation Brothers Novitiate in Killarney since April as part of the final stage of their training programme which includes multicultural experience. Both men have already completed third level studies with Brother Callistus holding a degree in science and Brother Augustine qualified in advanced welding and fabrication.

 “This is a special day in my life,” said Br Augustine speaking after the Mass. “I know that religious life will be challenging but today I am very happy. This is my vocation. It makes it even more special that we are making this commitment on the 175th anniversary of the arrival of the Presentation Brothers in Kerry!”

“The biggest change in coming to Ireland has been the weather,” joked Br Callistus. “Once you get used to that Ireland is a very pleasant place. The people of Killarney have been very friendly to us and I’m grateful to them. Thanks be to God and all the people who have supported, prayed and encouraged us on this journey - it has been a great adventure and experience of God.”

Left: Br Augustine kneels to make his First Profession of vows before Br Martin Kenneally, Congregation Leader.

During their time in Killarney both men have been involved in community activities with Brother Augustine volunteering with the Kerry Parents and Friends Association and Brother Callistus helping with the Kerry Diocesan Youth Service.

During the First Profession ceremony the two new Brothers made vows of poverty, chastity and obedience in the presence of the Congregation Leader of the Presentation Brothers, Brother Martin Kenneally.

In his homily during the Mass, Brother Martin congratulated the new Brothers. “It’s wonderful to see the faith commitment made by these two young men. We need to encourage commitment and generosity throughout our society today.”

Brother Barry Noel, the Novice Master for the Presentation Brothers in Killarney, said that there had been a buzz of excitement in anticipation of the event. “First professions are rare in Ireland these days. Today we had two men from Ghana making their first professions as Brothers. I would encourage anyone interested in our way of life to get more information about this vocation. Men are still being called to religious brotherhood. Our website, www.PresentationBrothers.org, has plenty of details.”

 “I also want to take the opportunity to thank the people of Kerry for the warm welcome they have given our novices over the past three years. We have had nine men through our programme here now. There is a great bond between the Presentation Brothers and the people of Killarney in particular."

Share |