Unworthy yet so Loved: Reflection on First Profession of Vows

Sr. Elizabeth Kim-Hoa
Jul 12
2 min read

Moving out from the School of Holy Spirit (the Novitiate House) was very emotional, but not as powerful as the Day of Profession. Both my novice director and superior equipped us, Sr. Zoey and I, very well with how to be fruitful CMR sisters. However, I did not fully grasp the taste of it until I professed my own vows, hearing my own voice, entering into the covenant with Jesus the Creator of the Universe. My whole interior soul and exterior body were shaken like an electric line striking me; it was the same experience I received at Confirmation. I knew then, I met Him.

As the most important event of the day winded down including all the visiting and celebrating with friends and family, I spent more time in silence with Jesus. I could not stop crying seeing how unworthy I was, yet loved so much.

God showed His love for me through His people. There was the surprise attendance of my little sister who belongs to the Missionaries of Charity. She has permission to only go home every ten years, but by God’s grace, she just showed up the night before my vow day.

(From Left to Right) Sr. Caritas, MC, Bishop Edward Rice, Sr. Elizabeth Kim-Hoa, CMR

Then there was the attendance of my childhood pastor - Father Peter Hien Nguyen, who is also my spiritual director (I didn’t even know the title until recently) for many years growing up. He came all the way from VietNam to witness and celebrate this special day.

Fr. Peter Hien Nguyen, Sr. Elizabeth Kim-Hoa, and Friends

My other priests’ friends put behind their busy schedule and ministries to come, celebrate Mass, and pray for us. All my friends and family members who traveled long distances after a long week of work moved me deeply.

Sr. Elizabeth Kim-Hoa, CMR's family and friends

I also very much appreciated all the CMR sisters, who after having their general chapter, hosted the weekend events full of love, energy and talents in a very welcoming, caring, and fun way. The love they had for Sr. Zoey and I radiated to all the guests that came to our first Profession Day. I saw all the guests’ faces filled with joy and laughter. As my little sister remarked, “This congregation is a great fit for you.” I am so blessed to belong to this sweet CMR home.

The question I asked myself is, “Who am I to be worthy that God loves me this much?” Then the Holy Spirit reminded me of the words Sister Pauline said “ We, CMR sisters, are a living memorial of Christ, by living the Paschal Mystery with the evangelical childhood spirituality everywhere and anytime”.