Deacon Leo Praveen D’Souza S/o Mr Henry D’Souza and Mrs Lucy Crasta of Arva parish and Deacon Pradeep Cardoza S/o Mr Hilary Cardoza and Mrs Aphresia Marceline Cardoza of Hirebaill, Chikmagaluru were ordained priests by Most Rev. Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo on 03rd May, 2022.
The ordination ceremony was held in the presence of V. Rev. Fr Ronald Serrao, Rector of St Joseph Seminary, Mangalore; V. Rev. Fr Stany B. Lobo, Chancellor of Udupi Diocese, relatives and friends of the newly-ordained priests along with hundreds of devotees. More than 50 priests were present on the occasion.
The bishop in his homily pointed out the status and responsibilities of a priest in the church. He said that a priest is the one chosen by God from among the people to serve them and lead them to Christ. He also highlighted the significance and challenges of priestly ministry in the present world.
Later, the newly ordained priests concelebrated in the Holy Eucharist with the Bishop. Fr Stephen D’Souza, Director of Diocesan Biblical and Catechetical Centre animated the Liturgy.
After the mass, a Felicitation program was held at Milagres Tri Centenary hall, Kallianpur. The program began with a prayer song by the choir members. Most Rev. Dr Gerald Lobo, Rev. Fr V. Rev. Fr Ronald Serrao, V. Rev. Fr Stany B. Lobo, Rev. Fr Leo Praveen D’Souza and Rev. Fr Pradeep Cardoza were present on the dais.
Rev. Fr Leo Praveen and Rev. Fr Pradeep along with their families cut the cake. Rev. Fr Anil Castelino introduced the newly ordained priests to the gathering. V. Rev. Fr Alban D’Souza raised the toast and wished the new priests well. Most Rev. Dr Gerald Lobo and Fr Ronald Serrao addressed the gathering and congratulated the newly ordained priests.
V. Rev. Fr Stany B. Lobo welcomed the gathering and Rev. Fr Valerian Mendonca proposed vote of thanks. Mr Steevan Fernandes compeered the program.
