5 EAO Missionary Good Shepherds for Africa ordained
By Fr. Sebastian Koladiyil, SDB
Nairobi, Kenya, 19 May 2017 -- In Nairobi Kenya three priests and eighteen Deacons were ordained by Rev. Bp. Philip Angolo of Homa Bay at the Shrine of May Help of Christians. The Three Priests were one from Kenya and two from Vietnam. Two EAO missionaries belong to AFE Province - Delegation of Sudan - Fr. Peter Dung and Fr. Joseph Long.
The Deacons were three from Ghana, one from Mali, four from Kenya, one from Zimbabwe, one from Uganda, one from Zambia, one from Malawi, two from Nigeria, two from Vietnam and Rev. Francisco Biu from Myanmar (AFE-Sudan Delegation) and one from Togo. It was a great day for the Salesian Africa as the newly ordained minsters were born.
In his sermon Bishop Angolo said, “You are chosen, given this special privileged place and this choice comes with special responsibility to serve the people of God. You will face problems and struggles, but the Lord who called you will make every difficulty small if you go to him with your problems.”
Over 70 priests, Salesians and non-Salesians concelebrated in the Mass attended by many religious and laity.
It was a beautiful celebration with lot of singing and dancing typical of any African celebrations. After the liturgy, everyone was invited for lunch. The celebrations continued into late evening. We wish the newly ordained a very fulfilling service in the vineyard of the Lord.
The thanksgiving Mass of Fr. Peter Dung will be celebrated in Vietnam (Thanh Phong parish) on 31st May 2017 and the the 'First' Mass of Fr. Joseph Long in Lai An parish on 27th May.
We pray the example of new Salesian missionary priest will inspire many more young people to offer their life in the missio ad gentes!
