Posted On: 24 March, 2025
On March 19, 2025, five Salesians were ordained as deacons by Most Rev. Neethinathan Anthonisamy, D.D., Bishop of Chengalpattu, in a solemn and grace-filled ceremony at the Votive Shrine, Kilpauk, Chennai. The ordination took place on the Solemnity of St. Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church, adding a profound spiritual significance to the occasion.
Among the five newly ordained deacons, one belongs to the Salesian Province of Tiruchy (INT), while the remaining four hail from the Salesian Province of Chennai (INM). The ceremony witnessed the presence of Fr. Edwin Vasanthan, Economer of the Salesian Province of Chennai (INM), Fr. Pathiaraj Rayappan, Rector of Becchi Don Bosco House in Chennai, along with a large gathering of Salesian and diocesan priests, friends, and family members of the brothers.
The ordination was further enriched by the presence of Bishop Neethinathan Anthonisamy, whose role as the ordaining prelate added a deep sense of solemnity and grace to the celebration. In his homily, the Bishop emphasized three key messages for the newly ordained deacons:
Service as a way of life – Deacons are called to serve with humility and dedication.
Authenticity in preaching – One must be deeply convinced of the message he proclaims.
Wholehearted commitment – Every act of service should be performed with an undivided heart, full commitment, and enthusiasm.
The occasion also provided an opportunity for the faithful present to reflect on the importance of the diaconate in the life of the Church and how deacons serve as a vital link between the clergy and the people of God. The Salesian family, across the provinces of Chennai and Tiruchy, celebrated this joyous milestone, reaffirming their commitment to the Salesian charism and their mission to serve young people and the marginalized in society.
