Loretto first vows celebration honors calling, commitment and community

The Loretto Community gathered at the Loretto Motherhouse in Nerinx, Ky., with joy and gratitude on Oct. 18 to celebrate the first profession of vows of Saima and Shaista. Family, friends and Loretto Community members joined in person and via Zoom as Saima and Shaista formally began their lives as vowed members of the Loretto Community. The celebration began the evening before with a joyful henna ceremony honoring their Pakistani heritage, complete with traditional food, music and dancing.

Saima and Shaista had especially wanted to profess their vows during October, a month dedicated to Mary, whose loving presence and guidance have long been central to their faith. Their profession marked not only a deepening of their commitment to God and Loretto, but also the continuation of a vocational journey that began through their teaching and ministry in Pakistan. Their move to the United States required crossing borders of geography, language and culture, a journey made possible through faith, perseverance and the support of the Loretto Community.

As we celebrated Saima and Shaista’s first vows, we also celebrated the connections they have helped build between cultures, communities and experiences. Their story reminds us that God’s call knows no border, and that faith, education and love can bridge every divide. This week on Loretto’s Facebook page we will feature scenes from this past weekend’s joyful celebration!