On the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, September 14, 2017, in the magnificent Basilica in Lutyn, Slovakia a solemn ceremony took place during which Sister Terezia Benarikova from the Mother of God Province in Presov, Slovakia made her Perpetual Profession to God in the community of the Sisters of the Order of Saint Basil the Great.

Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Metropolitan Archbishop Jan Babiak, SJ and concelebrated by Reverend Metodius Bilanchak and other priests. Among those present in the Basilica were members of the family, invited guests and many faithful.
The ritual of Perpetual Profession took place during the Divine Liturgy with the singing of the troparion and a procession with lit candles. During a special chant about the prodigal son returning to his father, Sister Terezia lay down and stretched out her arms in the shape of a cross. Later, she stood before the Archbishop responding to his question whether or not she comes of her free will to consecrate herself to God, understanding the life to which God is calling her and whether she is ready to accept that invitation. Sister Terezia responded: “With God’s help, Most Reverend Archbishop”. After the conclusion of the beautiful rite of intent and inspiring words from our spiritual Father, came the moment of professing vows. Sister placed her hand on the Gospel Book and in God’s presence professed to live according to the three vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience in the community of the Sisters of the Order of Saint Basil the Great until her death.
Afterwards, Sister lay down in the form of a cross and was covered by a black shroud, which was then strewn with flowers - a symbol of her death to the world and the beginning of her new life of consecrated service. Most Reverend Archbishop commented at the end of the Liturgy, that such a solemn death to the world is not covered by mass media in current times.
We wish our dear Sister Terezia daily growth in the love of Our Lord to whom she has dedicated her life. May this love help her joyfully minister to the people of God.

Information and photo taken from: bazilianky.wbl.sk