Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (EP)

Udupi, Apr 24: Bishop Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo of the Udupi diocese ordained deacon Stephan Rodrigues as a new priest for the diocese during a religious ceremony held at Thottam St Ann's Church.

During his homily, the bishop explained the religious and social responsibilities of a Catholic priest. He commended the family for giving a priest to the diocese and encouraged parents to support their children in considering the priesthood.

The priests, along with the bishop, placed their hands on the head of the newly ordained priest and prayed for the arrival of the Holy Spirit. Subsequently, they anointed the hands of the new priest with holy oils as per Catholic religious customs.

Present at the occasion were Udupi diocese vicar general Msgr Ferdinand Gonsalves, chancellor Fr Dr Roshan D' Souza, Mangaluru Jeppu St Joseph Seminary rector Fr Ronald Serrao, Kallianpur deanery’s Fr Valerian Mendonca, Thottam church parish priest Fr Denis D' Sa, Fr Martin Rodrigues (brother of Fr Stephan), and more than 40 priests. Fr Stephan D'Souza coordinated the religious ceremony.

Following the Mass, Fr Stephan Rodrigues was felicitated on behalf of Thottam St Ann’s Church.

Fr Stephan Rodrigues hails from the famous tourist destination of Shivamogga district, Jog Falls. He pursued his degree at Puttur St Philomena's College, received priestly education at St Joseph Seminary, Mangaluru, and underwent deacon training at St Ann's Church, Thottam, starting from October 14, 2023.