The Emmaus Salesian Novitiate, Sechü-Zubza, witnessed a solemn and grace-filled moment on the morning of 8^th December 2025 as fourteen novices, eight from the Province of Dimapur (IND) and six from the Province of Guwahati (ING) were vested with the religious cassock during the Holy Mass.

The Holy Mass, officiated by Reverend Father Deli Kapani SDB, Vice Provincial of Dimapur, was a profound moment of prayer and commitment. The fourteen novices were presented with the religious cassock, the symbolic garment of their new consecrated life. The celebration was attended by Reverend Father Thomas Vengakunnel SDB, the Novice Master, along with the entire community of the Emmaus Salesian Novitiate.

In his poignant homily, Rev. Fr. Kapani illuminated the deep significance of the ritual. He emphasized that the “donning of the clerical habit is an outward sign of our religious consecrated life, a sign that we belong to Christ and His Church.” Moving beyond the external symbol, he charged the novices to internalize their vocation, urging them to “strive to ‘Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience’ (Col 3:12).”

Highlighting the core Salesian values, Fr. Kapani stated that the vestition is a clear “call to simplicity of lifestyle, and to embrace the poverty of Christ.” He reinforced this teaching by quoting the wisdom of Mamma Margaret, mother of St. John Bosco, reminding the young men that, “It’s not the habit that honours your state, but the practice of virtue.”

Concluding his reflection, the Vice Provincial framed the future mission of the novices, stating that the cassock serves as a constant “reminder of our call to be signs and bearers of God’s love for the young.”

The six novices from our province now clothed in their new habit, will dedicate the coming year to intense prayer, study, and apostolic experience, deepening their understanding of the Salesian charism as they prepare for the first vows. The ceremony marks a significant day of grace and hope for the province.