Two Deacons Ordained as Priests for the Diocese of Belgaum

Belgaum, July 5, 2025: Deacons Peter Nazareth and Anthon Fernandes were ordained as priests for the Diocese of Belgaum during a solemn Eucharistic celebration held on June 30 at Our Lady of the Family Rosary of Fatima Cathedral in Camp, Belgaum.

The ordination Mass, celebrated in Konkani, was presided over by His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr. Derek Fernandes, Bishop of Belgaum. More than 100 priests—including diocesan clergy and religious priests from across the region and beyond—joined the family members, friends, and well-wishers of the ordinandi in witnessing this sacred moment.

During the Mass, Bishop Fernandes conferred the Sacrament of Holy Orders upon Deacons Peter and Anthon through the laying on of hands.

Rev. Fr. Peter Nazareth, hailing from Bidi, and Rev. Fr. Anthon Fernandes, from Uchagaon, began their priestly journey at St. Michael’s Minor Seminary, Machhe, Belgaum. They continued their formation with philosophical studies at St. Joseph’s Inter-diocesan Seminary, Jeppu, Mangalore, and completed their theological training at St. Peter’s Pontifical Seminary, Bangalore.

Their ordination as priests is the fruit of many years of discernment, formation, and pastoral nurturing.

The faithful of the Diocese of Belgaum rejoiced in welcoming two new shepherds into the vineyard of the Lord, full of zeal and commitment to serve the people of God.

By Fr. Alwin Christopher George

Secretary, 

Commission for Social Communication,

Diocese of Belgaum