← [[fellowship-fh|Fellowship]] | [[formation-handbook-toc|Table of Contents]] | [[conclusion-fh|Conclusion]] → # Celebrations — Profession/Reception Day The high point of formation is expressed in the joyful celebration of the community Profession/Reception Day. The Aspirants’ reception of the Large Ceremonial Scapular, the First and Definitive Promises of the candidates and the vows, all take place in a cordial atmosphere of community gathering. The family and friends of the participating candidates are invited, and the ceremony takes place in the presence of the whole community. The occasion is truly an exciting and humbling moment for all, especially the participating candidates. The ceremony is followed by a feast of various foods and drinks. Cards and flowers are exchanged. Sometimes, a memento (cross, book, Bible, picture) is given to mark the occasion. Each stage of formation is a step forward in spiritual maturity, prayers, and celebration. The feelings of jubilation [of prayer] expressed by St. Teresa aptly describe this special day of celebration: The joy is “so excessive that the soul wouldn’t want to enjoy it alone but wants to tell everyone about it…” Thus, the soul radiates this love outward and draws people to it as if in a communal celebration. “It seems it has found itself and that, like the father of the prodigal son, it would want to prepare a festival and invite all” (Interior Castle VI.6:10). --- **Source:** [[maps/bibliography#^biblio-ocds-fh|OCDS Formation Handbook]]