Indian Deacon Anto Abhishek Among 32 Ordained by Pope Leo in Vatican

Vatican City, June 27, 2025 : Pope Leo XIV ordained 32 new priests during a solemn Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica on Friday, marking the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a day also dedicated to prayer for the sanctification of priests.

Among those ordained was Father Anto Abhishek from the Diocese of Sultanpet, India, who joined deacons from around the world in receiving the sacrament of Holy Orders directly from the Holy Father.

In his homily, Pope Leo urged the new priests to model their ministry on the compassionate heart of Christ, serving God’s people with humility and love. He reminded them that priesthood is not a career but a lifelong commitment to the service of others.

During the ordination Mass, Pope Leo XIV offered heartfelt advice to the new priests, saying:

Firslty, love God and your brothers and sisters, and give yourselves to them generously."

Second, he exhorted, "be fervent in your celebration of the sacraments, in prayer, especially in adoration before the Eucharist, and in your ministry."

Third, he urged, "keep close to your flock, give freely of your time and energy to everyone, without reserve and without partiality, as the pierced side of the crucified Jesus and the example of the saints teach us to do."

The ordination liturgy, rich in tradition and solemnity, included the laying on of hands, the prayer of consecration, and the investiture with priestly vestments. Family members, friends, and faithful from across the globe filled St. Peter’s Basilica for the celebration, which concluded with the newly ordained priests imparting their first blessings.

The Day of Prayer for the Sanctification of Priests, observed worldwide on the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart, is dedicated to praying for the spiritual strength and holiness of clergy. This year, Pope Leo emphasised the importance of prayer and fraternity among priests as a source of encouragement and perseverance in their mission.

The newly ordained priests will soon return to their dioceses and religious communities to begin their pastoral ministries, bringing with them the blessings and mission entrusted to them by the Pope.

Courtesy: Vatican News