Perpetual vows and first profession int the Province of Madagascar

On December 17, 2023, two Marist brothers made their religious vows in Alarobia Ambatomanga, a village about fifty kilometers from Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar. They were Brother Ranaivo Andriamady Rivo Roger, who made his perpetual profession, and Brother Rabetombozandry Scolastique Vienei, who made his first profession.

The ceremony took place in the local Catholic church. Many faithful attended the mass celebrated for the occasion, in the presence of Brother Maminiaina Michel, Provincial of Madagascar, many other Brothers from various communities, lay and young Marists, friends and families of the two Brothers.

The mass was presided over by the Vicar general of the Antananarivo diocese, assisted by three other Priests.

Brother Ranaivo Andriamady Rivo Roger was born in Alarobia Ambatomanga. He discovered the Marist Brothers thanks to a nun who helped him after he expressed his wish to become a Religious educator.

Brother Rabetombozandry Scolastique Vienei comes from the province of Antsiranana, in Andapa. He met the Brothers at the Saint Joseph Marist school in Antsiranana. He was also inspired by the life of the Brothers, who are close to young people.

This ceremony was a time of joy and gratitude for the Marist Brothers of Madagascar, who celebrated the commitment of two of their confrères. It also served to strengthen the bonds between Brothers, laypeople, young people and families, who make up the Marist family. Finally, it demonstrated Saint Champagnat’s love for the education of young people in the Church and the world, who need witnesses to the Gospel and to God’s love.