During the solemn Mass, Bishop Bernard, in his homily, highlighted the role of deacons in serving the Church at three key tables: the Table of the Word, the Table of the Bread, and the Table of Charity. He called upon the new deacons to wholeheartedly embrace their roles in serving the Church and the people of God. The Bishop also extended his heartfelt appreciation to the parents of the deacons for their sacrifices, offering their sons to the service of the Lord. “Rooted in the early Church’s mission from Acts 6, the role of the deacon arose from real pastoral needs — caring for the poor and enabling the apostles to focus on prayer and the Word. Deacons are called not just to perform tasks but to embody Christ the servant, echoing Jesus’ example of humble service: “The Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve.” Deacons carry out three core ministries: proclaiming the Word, assisting at the altar, and living radical charity. They must preach the Gospel by word and example, be humble and reverent at the altar, and go out to serve the poor and forgotten as true treasures of the Church. They are reminded that their ordination is not a reward but a gift from God who knows their strengths and weaknesses. Humility, prayer, and fidelity must shape their identity. Mary, the first servant and the first tabernacle, is held up as their perfect model — silent, faithful, and present in suffering. Deacons are living sacramental signs of Christ’s servant love, showing that greatness in the Church is measured by love, service, and faithfulness. They belong to Christ and His Church and are sent out as servants of joy, ministers of mercy, and heralds of hope. May Mary guide and intercede for them always”, the Bishop said.

The ordination ceremony was attended by the community members of Sacred Heart Theological College, including priests and brothers doing the studies of Theology from various Salesian Provinces and other religious congregations. Among the concelebrants were  Fr John Zosiama, Salesian Provincial of Shillong Province, Fr Sebastian Kuricheal, Salesian Provincial of Guwahati, Fr Deli Kampani the Vice Provincial of Dimapur Province, Fr Joji a Youth Director from Hyderabad Province, Fr. Sunil Barla the Rector of the community and many others representing the various provinces.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, and speaking on behalf of the newly ordained, Deacon Sebastian offered thanks to the formators, priests, and all those who had supported their formation journey.