My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior
Chofu, Tokyo, 3 June 2025 -- On 24 May 2025—the Feast of Mary Help of Christians—Cl. Amadi Joseph Abuto SDB, a Kenyan missionary to the Japan Province, was ordained a deacon in a solemn Mass held at the chapel of the Salesian Seminary in Chofu, Tokyo.
The ordination Mass was presided over by Bp. Mario Michiaki Yamanouchi SDB of the Diocese of Saitama, who, during his time as Provincial of the Salesians of Don Bosco in Japan, welcomed Cl. Abuto to the Japan Province as a missionary. The celebration was attended by many Salesians, members of the Salesian Family, and faithful who gathered in joy and prayer to welcome the new deacon.
A Vocation Beyond Borders and Languages
Deacon Abuto was born in 1987 in Nairobi, Kenya. He joined the Salesians in 2010 and made his first profession in 2014. In 2017, he came to Japan as a missionary, gaining pastoral experience in the Yokkaichi and Miyazaki communities. He made his perpetual profession in 2022, after which he pursued theological studies at the Salesian Seminary in Parañaque, Philippines.
Known for his gentle demeanor and deep prayer life, Deacon Abuto is also recognized for his passionate dedication to apostolic work.
A Name that Means “Loved by God”
In his homily, Bp. Yamanouchi reflected on the meaning of “Amadi,” which means “loved by God.” He encouraged Deacon Abuto to live his vocation with joy and prayer, saying, “Even with language differences, walk together with your brothers, fulfill your mission as a deacon with a smile, and stay faithful to the guidance of your bishop and parish priests. Despite challenges, may your life always be filled with the hope of Don Bosco.”
Gratitude for Global Support
Fr. Francis Assisi Atsushi Hamasaki SDB, Provincial of the Salesians in Japan, expressed gratitude to Bp. Yamanouchi for accepting Cl. Abuto as a missionary during his time as Provincial. He also thanked Fr. George, the Provincial of the Africa West Province, and Fr. Thomas, formation staff from the Parañaque Seminary, both of whom came to Japan for the ordination. Special thanks were offered to Deacon Abuto’s parents, especially his mother, who traveled to Japan for the occasion.
A Trilingual Message of Thanksgiving
In his address, Deacon Abuto spoke in Japanese, English, and Swahili, expressing heartfelt gratitude:
“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior. The Lord has called me to serve Him as a religious, and He has walked with me until this day. I entrust my vocation to the Lord, confident that He will continue to walk with me.”
He emphasized the special significance of being ordained on the Feast of Mary Help of Christians, a deeply meaningful day for all Salesians:
“When the Provincial asked me if I would like to be ordained on this day, I did not hesitate. I thank him for arranging it and Bp. Yamanouchi for presiding over this Mass. I am truly grateful.”
A Witness to Global Faith and Salesian Brotherhood
This ordination is a powerful sign of faith that transcends language, nationality, and culture. It stands as a moving testimony to the unity of the Salesian Family, the mission of Don Bosco, and the vitality of religious vocations in today’s world.
Let us continue to keep Deacon Amadi Joseph Abuto SDB in our prayers as he continues his journey toward the priesthood in joyful service to God and His Church.
Mary Help of Christians, pray for us!
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