Mangaluru: In a deeply spiritual and joyous ceremony, five brothers were ordained to the Sacred Order of Deacons for the Diocese of Mangalore by Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore. The solemn Eucharistic celebration took place on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. in the Chapel of St Joseph Interdiocesan Seminary, Jeppu.
A Sacred Step in the Journey of Vocation
The newly ordained deacons are:
- Rev. Dn. Jeevan D’Souza – Bela Parish
- Rev. Dn. Loyd Rohan D’Souza – Madanthyar Parish
- Rev. Dn. Joel Monteiro – Cordel Parish
- Rev. Dn. Denzil Rodrigues – Nainad Parish
- Rev. Dn. Avil Santhumayor – Shirtady Parish
The ordination marks a milestone in their spiritual formation, as the diaconate represents the final step before priestly ordination.
Bishop’s Call to Serve with Love and Humility
Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha presided over the Eucharistic celebration as the main celebrant and ordaining prelate. He was joined by a large number of concelebrants, including Msgr. Lawrence Maxim Noronha, Vicar General of the Diocese; Rev. Dr Rajesh Rosario, Rector of St Joseph Seminary; Fr Santhosh Rodrigues, Director of the Pastoral Centre; seminary staff; and diocesan clergy.
In his homily, the Bishop reflected on the threefold role of a deacon—as a minister of the Word, Altar, and Charity. He urged the newly ordained deacons to be “zealous men who proclaim the Gospel and bring people closer to Christ.”
“Your service is a service of love, modelled on Christ who came not to be served, but to serve,” said Bishop Saldanha. “Be close to the people, especially the poor and the suffering, and be faithful servants of God’s mysteries.”
A Ceremony of Deep Spiritual Meaning
The chapel was filled to capacity with seminary students, religious sisters, family members, and faithful, who prayerfully witnessed the sacred rite. The Liturgy of Ordination included the Prostration, the Laying on of Hands, and the Prayer of Ordination — moments that carried profound spiritual significance.
The Liturgy and ceremony were beautifully animated by Fr Rohit D’Costa, Director of Mangala Jyothi, who guided the participants through the sacred rituals.
Felicitations and Expressions of Gratitude
Following the Mass, a felicitation programme was held to honour the newly ordained deacons. Fr Johnson Sequeira, Principal of Lourdes Central School, conveyed greetings and felicitations on behalf of the diocese.
In his address, Bishop Saldanha extended heartfelt appreciation to the parents and families of the deacons for offering their sons to the service of the Church. He also commended the vocation promoters and seminary formators for their commitment and guidance in shaping the candidates’ spiritual and pastoral growth.
A Step Closer to Priesthood
The ordination to the diaconate marks the final stage before priesthood, symbolising readiness for greater service and spiritual responsibility. The newly ordained deacons will now serve in various parishes of the diocese, assisting in liturgical functions, preaching, and charitable ministries as part of their ongoing formation.
Their ordination not only brings joy to the Diocese of Mangalore but also stands as a testament to the vibrant faith and commitment of the local Church to nurture vocations and serve the community in Christ’s mission of love and service.
