Seventeen clerics of the Province, renewed their religious vows on Friday, 22 May 2026, in the presence of Rev. Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal, SDB, Provincial, who was the main celebrant of the Eucharistic celebration marking the conclusion of the annual retreat for brothers preparing for the renewal of their vows.

The renewal ceremony followed a five-day spiritual retreat preached by Rev. Fr. Kuriala Chittattukalam, SDB, who guided the brothers through days of prayer, reflection, discernment, and spiritual renewal. The retreat helped the participants deepen their relationship with Christ and prepare themselves spiritually for the renewal of their commitment to religious life.

In his homily, Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal reminded the brothers that God is capable of doing “far more infinitely than we can ask or imagine.” He emphasized that the renewal of vows is a public declaration that nothing can separate them from the love of Christ and that religious profession signifies an inseparable union with Jesus. Quoting St. Paul, he said, “It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Galatians 2:20).

Drawing inspiration from Abraham, the father of faith, Fr. Sebastian reflected on Abraham’s courageous response to God’s call to leave behind his homeland and everything familiar, trusting entirely in God’s providence. In the same way, he said, religious are called to leave behind personal comforts and remain ready to go wherever the Lord wishes to send them.

Referring to the Blessed Virgin Mary during the month dedicated to her, the Provincial highlighted her unconditional surrender to God’s will and her life of humble self-giving service. Religious life, he noted, is not about seeking personal gain or privilege, but about generously giving oneself in loving service to God and others.

Fr. Sebastian also recalled Pope Francis’ message for the Year of Consecrated Life, encouraging the brothers to be joyful, brave, and people of communion. He stressed the importance of nurturing one’s relationship with God, faithfully living community life, dedicating oneself wholeheartedly to mission, and treating every person with dignity and respect.

Speaking about the challenges of religious life in a world often driven by self-interest and materialism, he acknowledged that the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience may appear foolish to some. Yet, he affirmed that religious vocation is a precious gift from God, reminding the brothers of God’s assuring words: “I have called you by name; you are mine… you are precious in my eyes and I love you. Fear not, for I am with you.”

Reflecting on the Gospel account of Jesus asking Peter three times, “Do you love me?”, Fr. Sebastian explained that despite Peter’s failures and denial, Jesus continued to trust him and entrust him with responsibility. Likewise, every religious is called daily to renew his response to the Lord by saying, “Lord, you know that I love you,” even amid weakness, struggles, and failures.

Concluding his homily, Fr. Sebastian reminded the brothers that the renewal of vows is not merely an annual event but a daily commitment to live completely for Christ. Like St. Paul, who courageously witnessed to Christ despite hardships and suffering, religious are called to persevere faithfully in their vocation, relying not on their own strength but on the grace and accompaniment of God.

After the homily, the brothers, one by one, renewed their religious vows in the presence of the Provincial, the Salesians and the faithful.