There may have been a royal wedding at Westminster Abbey on Friday, April 29 which captured the world’s media attention but for those at Marist Seminary, Auckland there was only one celebration on their minds. On Saturday April 30 at St Annes Manurewa, seminarian Petero Chanel Aparama Matairatu SM made his perpetual profession in the Society of Mary. Fr Philip Cody SM, deputy provincial of the Society of New Zealand, received the vows.
Many people commented how moving the ceremony was especially when Petero make his vows. A crack in his voice was clearly audible. It was very emotional, said Philip Bennenbroek, a fourth year seminarian. Brendan Jenke, a first year student commented that it was the moment Petero had been preparing for all his life. He was particularly struck by the words ‘Mary, loving mother I am yours!’
Petero hails from a village in Fiji called Nawi and from the parish of the Holy Cross. The Bishop elect of Rarotonga and former provincial of the Society of Mary in Oceania, Paul Donoghue SM, preached at the Mass. Petero is a member of the Province of Oceania of the Society of Mary. Fr Paul made a wonderful connection with the history of Petero’s village, the name of the parish and the profession cross Petero would receive during the ceremony. The story about a battle between the Fijians and Tongans brought a few smiles to the congregation.
The presentation of the Tabua, whale’s tooth, during the ceremony was particularly moving and memorable. It is an expression of honour and was presented by Petero’s family, seated around him, formally handing him over to the Society of Mary. Fr Phil Cody held the Tabua for all to see and Fr Michael Wooler SM, parish priest of St Anne’s, replied to the family on behalf of the Society.
Petero will continue his studies at Marist Seminary and Good Shepherd College awaiting dates for his ordination to diaconate and priesthood. His ordination to the priesthood will take place in Fiji.
Source:
Christopher Skinner
Image: Philip Cody