‘Message of hope’ for the Church as three new priests ordained in Valletta
Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Galea-Curmi urges new priests to lead through prayer, humility and service to others
Three new priests were ordained on Saturday morning as Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Galea-Curmi described the ordinations as a “message of hope” for the Church that people are still answering God’s call to the priesthood.
Fr David Pace, Fr Ryan Dalli and Fr Jerome Barnabas were ordained during Mass at St John’s Co-Cathedral. Concelebrants included Archbishop Emeritus George Frendo, Bishop Joseph Alessandro, Provincial Fr Ivan Scicluna, Regional Superior Fr Frankie Cini, as well as a number of diocesan and religious priests.
In his homily, the auxiliary bishop reminded the new priests that a priest is “first and foremost” a person loved by God, and that the foundation of his ministry is union with God and prayer.
Fr David Pace, Fr Ryan Dalli and Fr Jerome Barnabas were ordained on Saturday. Photo: Archdiocese of Malta“A priest who stops praying gradually becomes empty. But a priest rooted in prayer becomes an instrument through whom God can touch hearts, heal wounds and awaken hope.”
He also explained that the priesthood is linked to mission and total self-giving to others, following the example of Christ. He encouraged them, as priests, to listen, welcome and remain close to those who are suffering. He emphasised the importance of humility and community, and said that a priest should lead people towards the Lord, not towards himself.