The India Region of the Mill Hill Missionaries marked a significant and grace-filled moment as Albis Tirkey and Cyril made their Perpetual Oath on 19 March at the Second Cycle Formation Centre, Pune.
The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Fr. Tomvenki Yellavula, Regional Representative, who received their oath on behalf of the General Superior, Michael Corcoran, and his Council, who were unable to be present.
The celebration coincided with the solemnity of Saint Joseph, patron of the Society. This provided a strong spiritual context for the occasion. Joseph, a man of quiet faith and decisive action, remains a powerful model for missionary commitment — a life lived not in words, but in faithful response to God’s call.
In the homily, the focus was placed on this silent yet firm commitment of Joseph. Like him, missionary life is not built on recognition or status, but on daily fidelity, trust in God, and the willingness to serve even when the path ahead is unclear.
By taking their Perpetual Oath, Albis and Cyril have made a definitive commitment to the missionary apostolate of the Society. Their “yes” is not simply a personal milestone but a response to God’s call to serve where the need is greatest, especially among those most abandoned and in need of the Gospel.
Their journey reflects the deeper truth of vocation: God calls not the perfect, but those willing to trust Him and grow in faithfulness over time. This step marks not the end of formation, but the beginning of a lifelong missionary commitment.
The Eucharistic celebration was followed by a fellowship meal, bringing together fellow priests, religious, students, friends, and well-wishers. It was a moment of shared joy, gratitude, and fraternity — a visible sign of the wider missionary family that supports and accompanies those who respond to God’s call.
The Perpetual Oath of Albis and Cyril is both a personal commitment and a sign of hope for the Society. In a world marked by uncertainty and division, their decision to dedicate their lives to mission speaks clearly of faith, courage, and generosity.
As they begin this new phase of their journey, we pray that they will remain rooted in Christ, sustained by prayer, and guided by the missionary spirit of the Society — serving with humility, joy, and perseverance wherever they are sent.
Tomvenki Yellavula, MHM
Regional Representative – India Region.
