SHILLONG: Archbishop Dominic Jala bestowed the Sacrament of Holy Orders on Deacon Clarence Kharmawlong SDB at an Ordination Mass celebrated at Saint Dominic Savio, Mawlai Parish here on Saturday.
Deacon Clarence was presented for service by Fr. George Maliekal SDB, the Provincial Superior of the Salesian Congregation of Shillong Province. After inquiring if the deacon was worthy to be ordained, the Archbishop accepted the request to the sound of applause from the thousands who came to witness the religious event.
In his homily, Archbishop Jala reminded the deacon the role of an ordained minister. Following the Archbishop’s homily, the Rite of Ordination continued with Deacon Clarence promising fidelity to Christ and to the ministry of priesthood.
Kneeling before the Archbishop with his hands gripped between the hands of the Archbishop, Clarence promised respect and obedience to the Archbishop, his successors and to the Religious superior.
The gift of the Holy Spirit was then conferred by the laying on of hands, followed by the prayer of Ordination. The Archbishop then anointed the palms of the newly ordained as a sign that he is now sealed with the Holy Spirit. He was also called forth through the imposition of hands and the prayer of Ordination. Father Clarence was then vested in chasuble.
