– Bro. John Kennedy Philip

In a solemn ceremony held at the Votive Shrine in Kilpauk, Chennai, twelve Salesians were ordained as deacons by the Most Rev. Dr. George Antonysamy, D.D, the Archbishop of Madras Mylapore. The ordination took place on March 19, 2024, coinciding with the feast day of St. Joseph, patron saint of the universal Church. Among the newly ordained deacons, eight belong to the Salesian Province of Chennai (INM) and the other four belong to Salesian Province of Tiruchy. All the 12 deacons are doing their theological studies at Don Bosco Theological College, Kavarapettai which is 40 kms away from the Chennai city.  Fr. Don Bosco Lourdusamy sdb, Provincial of Chennai Province, Fr. Agilan Sarprasadam sdb, Provincial of Tiruchy, Fr. John Alexander, Vice Provincial of Chennai Province, Fr. Pathiaraj Rayappan, Rector of Becchi Don Bosco, Fr. Arulappa, Parish Priest of Votive Shrine and nearly hundred priests both Salesians and Diocesans and who joined in concelebrating the Mass.

The ordination ceremony was a significant moment for the Salesian family, as it marked the next step in the journey of these twelve individuals towards priesthood. Their dedication to serve the Church and their communities was evident as they took this important step in their vocational journey. The presence of the parents and relatives of the newly ordained deacons added to the emotional significance of the occasion. Their support and encouragement have been crucial in nurturing the vocations of these young men, who have answered the call to serve God and His people.

The faithful gathered at the Votive Shrine witnessed the ordination with reverence and joy, offering prayers for the newly ordained deacons as they embark on this new chapter in their lives. Archbishop George Antonysamy, in his homily, encouraged the deacons to remain steadfast in their commitment to the Gospel and to emulate the virtues of St. Joseph in their ministry.