Priestly Ordination: A Grace-Filled Celebration of Faith and Mission - Remain in My Love

Boroko, Port Moresby: In a deeply moving and solemn celebration, Deacon Francis Mallol SDB was ordained to the holy priesthood on 6 August 2025 at 3:00 PM at the Archdiocesan Shrine of Mary Help of Christians, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. The ordaining prelate was Bishop Pedro Baquero SDB, Bishop of Kerema Diocese. Concelebrating with him was His Eminence Sir Cardinal John Ribat, M.S.C., the Metropolitan Archbishop of Port Moresby. A total of twenty-one priests, Salesian confreres, religious, laity, representatives from the Solomon Islands, members of the Salesian Family, and over six hundred Christians joined in the celebration, praying for God’s grace and blessings.

Ordination Laying of hands by His Eminence John Cardinal Ribat MSC...Picture Courtersy: Fr Amrbose Pereira SDB and Mr Leo Paraha

The Eucharistic celebration, marked with traditional solemnity and spiritual fervour, was a testament to the vibrant faith of the local Church. In his homily, Bishop Baquero SDB said, “The priesthood is a gift given. When received, it is to be shared.” Reflecting on the Feast of the Transfiguration, he highlighted the “Passover experience” as one that transformed the disciples and continues to transform us each day. He reminded the newly ordained that “every Eucharist is a celebration of Christ’s Passover” and called upon all present to grow continually in faith and love. “Christ must become the centre of our lives,” he urged the congregation.

Congregation member receiving the Holy Eucharist from Fr Francis Mallol ...Picture Courtesy: Fr Ambrose Pereira SDB and Mr Leo Paraha.

The liturgy was well prepared and animated with lively voices under the direction of Peter Warikani, a pupil of Don Bosco. The entrance procession of traditional dancers was led by the Goilala group, and the offertory procession by the West New Britain group.

At the conclusion of the Mass, an emotional Fr Francis Mallol SDB gave the vote of thanks. He highlighted his theme, “Remain in My Love” (Jn 15:9), spoke briefly of his journey over the years, and expressed his gratitude to the Lord for His abiding presence. He thanked his parents and expressed profound appreciation to all who had accompanied him on his vocational journey, from family and formators to friends and fellow Salesians. His words resonated with authenticity and humility, drawing both tears and smiles from many in attendance.

Group Salesians Priests and Brothers...Picture Courtesy: Fr Ambrose Pereira SDB and Mr Leo Paraha

A festive meal was hosted by the vice-province at the Emmaus Conference Centre, enhanced by pigs, kaukau, and bananas generously donated by the family and parishioners of Mary Help of Christians, Sabama.

The ordination marked not just a personal milestone, but a moment of joy for the whole Salesian Family and the wider Church in Papua New Guinea.