16th Sunday after Pentecost 2024
Carmelite Perpetual Profession – The perpetual vows are received by the prioress of the convent, but the veil comes from the hands of the priest or bishop. In taking the black veil the novice shows herself to be a true bride of Christ, so it is fitting that it be given by him who is acting in Persona Christi. In the early days the veil sheltered the face of a married woman from the gaze of the world, her beauty and innocence being reserved for her spouse alone. So too with the perpetual vows of a nun. She is the spouse of Christ and she will accept no other lover. The nun is called to be generous and giving especially in the service of Christ’s representatives – the priests. The Carmelites in particular share in a special way in the interior life of the priest. This life is the means of sanctification and union with God. It requires great love and confidence in the unfailing assistance of Our Lord.
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