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Two new novices received in Killarney

Killarney played host to a historic ceremony this week when two Sri Lankan men, Raj Selvarathinam (23) and Theiva Sebastiyam Pillai (31), were received into the Congregation of Presentation Brothers. The special ceremony took place at the Presentation Brothers International Novitiate on Port Road in Killarney and marked the first time in the history of the Presentation Brothers that men from Sri Lanka have entered the order. Brother Martin Kenneally, the Congregation Leader of the Presentation Brothers, and Brother Andrew Hickey, Province Leader of the Anglo-Irish Province, attended the event and witnessed the two men request formal membership of the order.

Photo: (left to right) Brother Barry Noel (Novice Master), Brother Theiva, Brother Raj and Brother Martin Kenneally (Congregation Leader).

“This is a happy occasion and a historic one,” said Brother Barry Noel, the Novice Master in Killarney. “These are the first entrants from Sri Lanka we have ever had in our 200 year history.

“Raj and Theiva first heard about the Presentation Brothers from a religious sister in Sri Lanka who knows us well. She recommended they make an enquiry. Part of their training programme takes place in Killarney and we are delighted to have them here.

“Raj and Theiva have completed one year of initial formation, known as the postulancy year, here at the Presentation Brothers International Novitiate.

“Over the last twelve months they have had a chance to experience life as a religious brother. We are all delighted now that Raj and Theiva have applied to become novices with us.”

The two men will now proceed with their novitiate training with the Presentation Brothers in Killarney. This will involve two years of prayer and study. At the end of this period they will take their vows of poverty, chastity and obedience.

Photo: Brother Barry (centre) chats with Brother Theiva (left) and Brother Raj (right) after the ceremony.

“It took us a while to get used to life in Ireland,” explained Raj. “The food, the weather and the Kerry accent were very different! But the warm welcome we received from the people of Killarney has helped me to say ‘yes’ to God’s call.”

“Despite the cultural differences the two men say that they are enjoying the experience. “This is where I believe God is calling me – to life as a religious brother. That is my vocation and following your vocation always brings a sense of peace. Praying as a community helps me to respond to God’s call to brotherhood,” according to Theiva.

The two men have also been involved in the life of the local community since they arrived last year. Raj is a keen footballer with Killarney Celtic FC and a cricket player. Both are involved in the liturgies at the local parish.

“Only a few weeks ago two men from Ghana made their first profession as Presentation Brothers here in Killarney. It’s very encouraging to see these new vocations,” added Brother Barry.

“I would encourage any man interested in this way of life to get in touch with us at vocation@PresentationBrothers.org or to visit our website www.PresentationBrothers.org “

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