A Joyous Day of Ordination in Dandeli: Two Jesuit Deacons Become Priests

On : 2025-09-29

The parish community of Dandeli witnessed a day of grace and blessing as two Jesuit deacons, Rev. Noel Dias SJ and Rev. Sandeep Gonsalves SJ, were ordained to the priesthood on 29 September. The sacred rite was conferred by Most Rev. Derek Fernandes, Bishop of Belgaum, during a solemn Eucharistic celebration that brought together the faithful from near and far.

Held under the theme “Prophets of Hope Anchored in Faith,” the ordination was marked with deep devotion and reverence. Nearly ninety priests concelebrated with the Bishop, offering thanksgiving for the gift of two new shepherds to the Church. The grandeur of the liturgy highlighted both the richness of the Church’s tradition and the vibrant faith of the community.

The Vidyaniketan Jesuit community, Dharwad, under the leadership of Fr. Pratap Chandru SJ, took charge of the arrangements. The smooth and meaningful conduct of the celebration was the fruit of collaboration among the parish community, the Bethany Sisters, the families of the ordinands, and the Jesuit community. This unity served as a strong witness to the Church as one family journeying together in faith.

Fr. Dionysius Vas SJ, Provincial of the Karnataka Jesuit Province, graced the occasion and expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to the celebration. He especially thanked the families of the newly ordained priests for generously offering their sons in service to the Church and the Society of Jesus. He also felicitated the guests of honour, acknowledging their support on this significant day.

The newly ordained priests, Fr. Noel and Fr. Sandeep, concluded the celebration with words of gratitude to their formators, teachers, benefactors, family members, and all who had accompanied them through their years of formation. Their thanksgiving reflected the joy of a journey fulfilled and the hope of a mission just beginning.

The ordination ceremony and felicitation programme were gracefully compered by Fr. Dheeraj Dsouza SJ, whose efforts drew appreciation from all present.

The celebration in Dandeli will long be remembered as a powerful testimony of faith, unity, and God’s abundant blessings.

Reported by Fr Prathap Chandru.