The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu is to preside at the Sung Eucharist at Sister Helena’s Life Profession Service today and to accept her life vows in the Order of the Holy Paraclete – an Anglican religious community for women at St Hilda’s Priory, Sneaton Castle, Whitby.
Sister Helena will receive a ring which he places on her left hand. She will also receive her girdle from the altar, knotted three times representing the three vows she has taken of poverty, celibacy and obedience. She also receives a lighted candle which remains lit on the altar throughout the day.
The Midday Sung Eucharist is attended by the community of the Order, friends and family, and members of the wider congregation. Prayers are said for Sister Helena, with her fellow Sisters standing alongside her in solidarity. Following the signing of the Profession Registrar, Sister Helena holds the register and says three times;
“O stablish me according to your word, that I may live, And let me not be disappointed of my hope.”
Sister Helena served her postulancy in an OHP House in Ghana. She was in the Novitiate, the second stage of her training, in Whitby. She made her first Profession four years ago in Whitby.
Sister Dorothy Stella, the Prioress and Head of the Order said: “Today is a joyous occasion as Sister Helena gives her life to serve God. Every kind of talent, experience and God-given gifts can be applied in the religious life. I’m often asked about calling and vocation. If you feel that God is calling you to live in community come and visit us and learn more”.
For more information about the Order of the Holy Paraclete, please visit: www.ohpwhitby.org.uk.