This morning, at 8:30 AM, on October 10, 2024, Bishop Aloysius Nguyen Hung Vi, Bishop of the Diocese of Kon Tum, ordained six deacons and six priests of the Holy Vietnamese Martyrs Province at Khiet Tam Parish Church, Thu Đuc, Vietnam.

In his opening remarks, the Bishop invited everyone to pray for the candidates, asking God to grant them the courage in their choices and the zeal to serve the Lord and the Church. He also called upon everyone to pray for the candidates to receive the grace of perseverance in the mission they are about to undertake.

In his homily, the Bishop explained the roles of deacons and priests within the Church, helping everyone understand the duties of these ministries. He advised the candidates to live a life closely united with God, never neglecting prayer, as prayer is the bond that connects us to God. Through their ordination, the ordinands are united with Christ, becoming His friends, as He affirmed: “I no longer call you servants, but I have called you friends” (Jn 15:15). The Bishop wished them courage and steadfastness in the sacred ministry that the Church, in God's name, is entrusting to them. Once again, he urged the congregation to pray for the candidates' perseverance.

The ordination ceremony was solemn and respectful, with everyone attentive to every small celebration detail. The harmonious and rhythmic coordination of all elements in today’s liturgical rite highlighted the profound beauty of the sacred liturgy. This beauty captivated the participants and created a liturgical atmosphere filled with fervor and joy.

The joy of today’s celebration will remain in the hearts of the participants and serve as a motivation for the new ordinands as they embark on their future mission.

Let us wish the newly ordained clergy enthusiasm and generosity in their dedication so that their lives and ministries may reflect the distinct charism of the Congregation in which their vocations have been nurtured and grown.

Father Peter Tien Nguyen, sss