Mangaluru: In a solemn and grace-filled ceremony, five deacons were ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Mangaluru on April 16, 2026, at Holy Cross Church, Cordel, Kulshekar. The ordination was conferred by Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangaluru, in the presence of clergy, religious members, and thousands of faithful.

The sacred Eucharistic celebration marked a significant spiritual milestone for the Diocese, as the newly ordained priests committed themselves to a life of service, faith, and pastoral ministry.

Dignitaries and faithful gather in large numbers

The ceremony witnessed the presence of several prominent dignitaries, including Very Rev. Msgr Maxim L. Noronha, Vicar General; Very Rev. Dr Daniel Veigas OP, Episcopal Vicar for Religious; Very Rev. Dr Rajesh Rosario, Rector of St Joseph Seminary, Jeppu; and Very Rev. Naveen Pinto, Judicial Vicar.

Also present were Very Rev. Santhosh Rodrigues, Director of the Pastoral Centre, and Rev. Fr Clifford Fernandes, Parish Priest of Cordel, along with parish priests of the ordinandi’s home parishes. Numerous diocesan and religious priests, sisters, and lay faithful gathered to witness the sacred rite.

Bishop highlights priesthood as divine calling

In his homily, Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha emphasised the profound spiritual significance of priesthood, describing it as both a “divine gift and a mystery.” He reminded the ordinandi that their vocation is rooted in God’s grace rather than human merit.

He urged the new priests to remain grounded in prayer and to rely on God’s strength in their ministry. The Bishop also called upon the faithful to support their priests through constant prayer, enabling them to remain steadfast in their mission as “friends of Christ.”

Ceremony marked by devotion and participation

The liturgical proceedings were animated by Fr Rohith D’Costa, Director of DBCLC Mangala Jyothi, along with seminarians. The entire ceremony was meticulously coordinated by Rev. Fr Clifford Fernandes, ensuring a smooth and prayerful celebration.

Following the Mass, a felicitation programme was held, where the newly ordained priests and their parents were honoured. The Bishop personally greeted each priest and acknowledged the vital role of parents in nurturing their vocations.

Newly ordained priests express gratitude

On behalf of the newly ordained, Rev. Fr Jeevan D’Souza expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Bishop, formators, vocation promoters, priests, parents, and parishioners for their continuous support and prayers throughout their journey to the priesthood.

In his concluding remarks, Bishop Saldanha thanked all those who contributed to the formation of the new priests and prayed for their fidelity to their priestly mission.

Profiles of the newly ordained priests

The five newly ordained priests are:

  • Rev. Fr Avil Santhmayor, from Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Shirthady
  • Rev. Fr Denzil Rodrigues, from St Francis of Assisi Church, Nainad
  • Rev. Fr Jeevan D’Souza, from Our Lady of Dolours Church, Bela
  • Rev. Fr Joel Monteiro, from Holy Cross Church, Cordel
  • Rev. Fr Loyd Rohan D’Souza, from Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Madanthyar

Each of them brings unique talents, academic backgrounds, and spiritual journeys to their priestly vocation, reflecting dedication and commitment to serve the Church and society.

A moment of joy for the Diocese

The ordination ceremony was a moment of great joy and pride for the Diocese of Mangaluru, as it welcomed five new priests into its fold. The event highlighted the enduring strength of faith and the continued response of young individuals to the call of priesthood.

The ceremony concluded on a spiritually uplifting note, leaving the faithful inspired and hopeful for the future of the Church.