Deacon Rolwin Fernandes S/o Mr Reginald and Mrs Lydwin Fernandes of St Ann’s Church Thottam was ordained priest by Most Rev. Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo on 30th May, 2019.
The ordination ceremony was held in the presence of Msgr. Baptist Menezes, Vicar General of Udupi Diocese; V. Rev. Fr Joseph Martis, Rector of St Joseph Seminary, Mangalore; 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 30 priests were present on the occasion.
The ordination ceremony was held in the presence of Msgr. Baptist Menezes, Vicar General of Udupi Diocese; V. Rev. Fr Joseph Martis, Rector of St Joseph Seminary, Mangalore; 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 30 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 premises. The program began with a prayer dance by the children of the parish. Most Rev. Dr Gerald Lobo, Rev. Fr Louis D’Sa, Rev. Fr Leslie D’Souza, Sr Benedicta Fernandes, Rev. Fr Hector Fernandes, Rev. Fr Rolwin Fernandes, Mrs Rovina Fernandes, Mr&Mrs Reginald and Lydwin Fernandes were present on the dais.
Rev. Fr Rolwin Fernandes along with his family cut the cake. Rev. Fr Louis D’Sa raised the toast and wished the new priest well. Most Rev. Dr Gerald Lobo, Rev. Fr Leslie D’Souza, Rev. Fr Francis Cornelio addressed the gathering and congratulated the newly ordained priest.
Mr Reginald Fernandes welcomed the gathering and Rev. Fr Rolwin Fernandes proposed vote of thanks. Mr Leslie Arouza compeered the program.
