Called to Serve – CANDIDACY 2017

On Thursday, 9th February 2017 the third year theologians received the Candidacy for Holy Orders. The candidacy mass was celebrated in the Seminary Chapel and was presided by Bp. Bosco Penha. The third year theologians, before they enter into the final year of their formation, give their consent to their respective bishops to be admitted to the orders of diaconate and priesthood. This marks a stepping stone in the life of every seminarian preparing for the Priesthood. The ceremony includes the calling of the candidates, a general scrutiny by bishop to which the Rector responds and finally the conferral of the candidacy.

Here are the experiences of the third year theologians who received the Candidacy.

Today there was feeling that I was re-affirming my call to the Priesthood...

(Joel Fernandes, Archdiocese of Bombay)

I felt happy about realising my responsibility to care and concern for the flock of God.....

(Rakesh Dangi, Diocese of Jabwa)

I see God's grace flowing in my life, guiding me and helping me to persevere my vocation. Thank you generous Father. (Savio Lobo, Archdiocese of Bombay)

It is a moment of immense joy to receive the ministry of service, the order of Candidacy to Dioconate and priesthood. I am called to serve following the example of Jesus who washed the feet of his disciples. I thank the Lord, the Most High, for calling me for His service and accompanying me always..

(Michael Rexon, Diocese of Shimla-Chandigarh)

I thank the Lord for being so kind for accepting me as a candidate for diaconate. This is a favour of God which I will ever cherish. (Joseph Valliampokayil, Archdiocese of Bombay)

Its a delightful moment. I feel that once again God has affirmed that He has called me to do his ministry and to be a humble servant for the people of God. (Jerome Sahaya, Diocese of Kottar)

For me receiving candidacy for Holy Orders is a moment of God's grace. Its a wonderful experience of God's unconditional love and faithfulness. My heart overflows with gratitude to God, to Bp. Alwyn Barreto and to my formators in the seminary. Its a moment of joy and the fruit of perseverance in my vocation.

(Cajetan Rodrigues, Diocese of Sindhudurg)

"My soul magnifies the lord and My spirit rejoices in God my saviour" - Lk 1:46-47

My heart s filled with gratitude to God for his steadfast love and to all those who played vital role in strengthening my vocation. Its an auspicious moment because I experience the grace of God when I take a conscious and crucial step towards priesthood Which is challenging at the same time fulfilling and His call for me. (Saju Anthony, Diocese of Kottar)