Alotau: The Diocese of Alotau welcomed two newly ordained priests, Fr. Japhet Kemali and Fr. Thaddeus B'Gaiva, in a joyous celebration on 13th March 2022, at the Sacred Heart Cathedral.
Over thousands of people including priests, religious sisters, family, friends and the parishioners of the diocese flooded in to witness and congratulate the newly ordained priests.
In his homily, Bishop Rolando, urged the two priests to serve with love and dedication. He asked the people to pray for more priests for the Diocese of Alotau.
At the end of the Eucharistic Celebration, Fr. Japhet and Fr. Thaddeus acknowledged everyone who attended and those who worked hard to make the ordination a success.
Following the homily were presentations of gifts, speeches, sharing of food and entertainment. The Parishes brought in gifts in cash and kind in support for the Ordination.
The immediate family of Fr. Japhet Kemali traveled from Goodenough Island to witness the ordination. Fr. Japhet Kemali is the first priest in his parish, Bolubolu. The Bolubolu Parish brought in food and pigs for the occasion.
“I am really grateful to God for Vocation to the priesthood. I thank everyone especially my Families, community and my Parish for the great effort put towards the ordination. Ordination for me means to ponder and work towards the fulfillment of Christ's mission in my life,” said Fr Japhet.
Fr Thaddeus who is from East Sepik province said he enjoyed the celebration with the people of Alotau despite his family from Angoram & Biwat Parishes in the Wewak Diocese not being present.
“I am grateful to all because I have become a son to the Catholic Church in Alotau and that means pondering on our theme: ‘Go, make Disciples of All Nations.’ I am now a local Missionary, being sent by the Word which comes from heart of the Father, that says come follow me. I respond to Jesus calling to evangelize the people of Alotau Diocese as a newly ordained priest,” stated Fr Thaddeus
The celebration was colourful with presentations of gifts, speeches, entertainment and food. The celebration ended with a keynote from Head of the Ordination Committee, Michael Kape with a short note from the Benefactor of the newly ordained priests, Simon Tomiyavau.
ENDS//
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