Mangalore Bishop Urges Newly Ordained Deacons to Follow Jesus Closely

MANGALORE, 3 October 2025: Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha has called on newly ordained deacons to deepen their relationship with God and serve the faithful with dedication and perseverance. Addressing five Carmelite Brothers who were ordained as deacons at Infant Jesus Shrine, Carmel Hill, Bikarnakatte, the Bishop emphasized the importance of following Jesus closely and laying down one's life daily in service to others.

The newly ordained deacons are Bro. Alwin D’Souza from Nirkan, Mangalore Diocese; Bro. Elston Monteiro from Eliyar Padavu, Mangalore Diocese; Bro. Hilary Bodtol Rodrigues from Hosad, Karwar Diocese; Bro. Stin George M.R. from Suntikopa, Mysore Diocese; and Bro. Loy Jackson Crasta from Bajjodi, Mangalore Diocese.

In his homily, Bishop Saldanha encouraged the newly ordained deacons to deepen their relationship with God and serve the faithful with dedication and perseverance. “Since every Sacrament instituted by Jesus is a mystery, those who enter the diaconate also enter the mystery of God – the mystery of His service and the service of His people,” he said. He stressed the importance of prayer and the charism of the Carmelite Order in preparing the deacons to serve others effectively.

Highlighting the role of deacons, the Bishop said, “As you are filled with the Holy Spirit and mature in service, you must follow Jesus closely. To follow Him is to lay down one’s life daily, a form of white martyrdom, and if it is God’s will, even be ready for martyrdom itself.” He also drew a connection between the life of a deacon and the Chalice, noting their role in preparing, elevating, and distributing Communion.

The ordination ceremony was attended by clergy, religious, and faithful from across the region. After the Mass, Fr. Joseph Cyril D’Souza OCD's Konkani book "Highway to Heaven" was released.

By Br. Malvino Alfonso OCD