The Congregation of Holy Cross rejoices with the St. Joseph Province on the Final Profession of Br. Lipon Louis Chambugong, C.S.C., and Br. Andrew H. Chiran, C.S.C., on February 15, 2020. Br. Lawrence Subal Rozario, C.S.C., Superior of the Province, received the men’s religious vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience according to the Constitutions of the Congregation of Holy Cross.

The evening before their Final Profession, the two brothers participated in a traditional blessing ceremony called “Thokka.” This blessing, extended as a form of spiritual preparation for special occasions, is customary for the Garo people of Bangladesh.

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The Mass of Final Profession was held at St. Christina Church in Mohammadpur, Dhaka, and the Most Rev. Gervas Rozario, Bishop of the Diocese of Rajshahi, presided. Attending the ceremony were over 500 people, including Holy Cross brothers, priests, and sisters, other religious, family, and friends. Br. Ripon J. Gomes, C.S.C., Third General Assistant, was also present for the profession.

After the profession, there was a cultural program of music, dance, song, which was then followed by a luncheon.

Fr. James Cruze, C.S.C., Superior of the Sacred Heart Province in Bangladesh, and Sr. Violet Rodrigues, C.S.C., Asia Area Coordinator for the Sisters of the Holy Cross, each offered their own congratulation to the newly finally professed.

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Following their Final Professions, Br. Lipon and Br. Andrew will continue their full time ministry. Br. Lipon will continue teaching at Holy Cross High School in Bandura, while Br. Andrew is assigned to Udayon Secondary School in Barisal.