A Big Night, February 2nd, at St. Michael’s Chapel, as four young men were formally inducted into the Marist Brothers and officially began their Novitiate Year – a sacred time of prayer, study, reflection, and discernment as they prepare to take religious vows. Among them was our own alumnus, Brother Thomas Sulaimanee ’18, known to many in our community as Brother Tommy.
The novitiate is a critical step in religious life. After a period of discernment and formation, a candidate enters the novitiate, which is a structured year dedicated to deep spiritual growth. During this time, the novice steps away from the distractions of ordinary life to focus intentionally on prayer, learning the history and mission of the Marist Brothers, community living, and understanding the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.
One of the most visible and symbolic moments of this step is the reception of the religious habit, the robes that signify their commitment to the Marist way of life. As of that evening, they also take on the title “Brother,” marking their formal entrance into this new chapter.
Brother Thomas, alongside Brother Abi, Brother Bjorn, and Brother Nik, began volunteering at the Mount this academic year. Their ceremony was filled with fellow brothers, faculty and staff members, prayer groups, friends, and family. It was a powerful witness to both tradition and renewal to an Order with deep roots continuing to grow through young men willing to answer the call.
When speaking about this step, Brother Thomas shared: “It is both a beginning and a transformation. I’m honored to join the Order and represent as a man from the Bronx and serve as an example to the kids.” His words reflect both humility and courage that have long defined Marist education.
Together, they begin this year of formation, stepping into a life centered on faith, service, and community. We are blessed to see Brother Thomas ’18 and his fellow novices embrace this calling. Their commitment stands as a powerful example of faith in action and a continuation of the Marist mission for generations to come.
**Originally published on mtstmichael.org
