Alotau: The Ordination for Diaconate of Seminarians Japhet Kemali and Thaddeus B'Gaiva was celebrated on the 6th June 2021, at the Sacred Heart Cathedral by Bishop of Alotau, Rolando Santos.
It was a great joy for these two young men who dedicated their entire lives in serving the Lord for the people of Milne Bay and Papua New Guinea as a whole. The theme of the candidates was; "Go, Make Disciples of All Nations," that reminds of Service to the Church.
The priests from different parishes attended the ordination with great appreciation to see their Seminarians enter into the clergy. It was also a great joy for the people of Alotau to see the fruit of their prayers on vocations to priesthood.
There were also families and friends of the two candidates who attended. The Mataita Community of Goodenough Island have travelled on boats to attend the ordination led by Fr. Nicky, the Parish Priest. Although the weather and the rough seas, it did not stop them attending.
The celebration proceeded with an entrance dance by the Mataita Cultural Group. Bp Santos during his homily reminded the candidates to pray every day and dedicate their lives to the Service of God's people.
After the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, Rev. Japhet Kemali thanked everyone who contributed to the success of the day. He thanked specially the people who travelled a long way to attend the ordination.
Rev. Kemali also urged the priests of Alotau to guide the deacons in their spiritual growth as they are humans who are always prompt to make mistakes.
The recessional dance was led by the Mataita Cultural group which concluded the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. There was also food, speeches, entertainments and gift presentations that concluded the whole Ordination program.