Deacon Steevan Fernandes S/o Mr Santhan Fernandes and Mrs Roman Fernandes of Holy Cross Church Pamboor was ordained priest by Most Rev. Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo on 08th May, 2019.
The ordination ceremony was held in the presence of the V. Rev. Fr Joseph Martis, Rector of St Joseph Seminary, Mangalore; Msgr. Baptist Menezes, Vicar General of Udupi Diocese; Msgr. Maxim Noronha, Vicar General of Mangalore Diocese; V. Rev. Fr Stany B. Lobo, Chancellor of Udupi Diocese, relatives and friends of the newly-ordained priest along with hundreds of devotees. More than 40 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 the priestly ministry in the present world.
Later, the newly ordained priest 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 Church auditorium. The program began with a prayer dance from Children from the parish. Most Rev. Dr Gerald Lobo, Msgr. Maxim Noronha, Rev. Fr John Barboza, Rev. Fr Paul Rego, Rev. Fr Stephen Fernandes, Mr&Mrs Santhan and Roman Fernandes were present on the dais.
Rev. Fr Steevan Fernandes along with his family cut the cake. Rev. Fr Paul Rego raised the toast and wished the new priest. Most Rev. Dr Gerald Lobo, Msgr. Maxim Noranha, Rev. Fr John Barboza addressed the gathering and congratulated the newly ordained priest.
Mrs Roman Fernandes welcomed the gathering and Rev. Steevan Fernandes proposed vote of thanks. Rev. Fr Ashwin Aranha compeered the program.