On October 2, 2016 in the Chruch of Blessed Priest-Martyr Pavlo Gojdych in Sidlusku, Prešov the Sisters of the Order of St. Basil marked a special occasion, which occurred in the presence of the Metropolitan Archbishop of Prešov, Most Reverend Ján Babjak, SJ.

It is from this parish that Our Lord has called Slávka Čekánová to enter the community of the Sisters of the Order of St. Basil the Great. She entered the novitiate, choosing as her monastic name Sr. Sofia. She donned her habit – a symbol of God’s protection and of spiritual joy; on her head, a veil – “a covering of obedience and spiritual wisdom”. During her acceptance into the novitiate, Sister received chotky (Jesus beads) – “a spiritual sword, which is the Word of God”, reminding to always carry in one’s heart, in one’s thoughts and upon one’s lips the name of Jesus. A candle was given to Sr. Sofia as a reminder that through her life of chastity, she is to be a light to the world.
Most Reverend Metropolitan Ján pastorally addressed Sr. Sofia, the Sisters and all those present, explaining that each Christian is called by God. He emphasized that each person is called to be holy, not just those in consecrated life, encouraging all those present to strive to lead a life of holiness.
It is important to note that this special ceremony of entering the novitiate was witnessed, not just by family and friends, but by many parishioners and interested guests. Many of those present shared that this was the first time that they had seen and witnessed such a religious ceremony, leaving them with an unforgettable impression and memory.

Information taken from: bazilianky.wbl.sk