St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary experienced an evening of spiritual significance and ecclesial joy, when 20 brothers of I Year Theology were admitted to Candidacy for the Order of the Diaconate and Priesthood. The solemn ceremony took place at 7.30 p.m., presided over by Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Bishop Emeritus of Mangalore.

Having formally expressed their willingness to pursue the path towards Holy Orders through written requests to their respective Diocesan Bishops, the brothers were officially accepted as candidates by the Church. This important step in their formation journey called them to deepen their relationship with Christ and prepare themselves to become faithful ministers, reflecting Christ in their thoughts, words, and actions.

In his homily, Bishop Aloysius encouraged the candidates to nurture their spiritual lives, remain steadfast in their vocation, and shape their hearts according to the Heart of Jesus Christ, the Eternal High Priest. He reminded them of the importance of prayer, dedication, and a sincere commitment to their calling.

The central part of the celebration was the Rite of Calling, Examination, and Acceptance of the Candidates, through which the Church formally acknowledged their readiness to continue their journey towards ordained ministry. The liturgy was enriched by prayerful participation and concluded with intercessory prayers, a vote of thanks by Br Flexon, and a recessional hymn.