Shillong 1st July 2024: In a solemn ceremony filled with reverence and joy, 22 candidates were ordained as deacons today 1st July 2024 at 6:30am during a Holy Mass at Sacred Heart Theological College in Mawlai. The diaconate ordination, a significant event in the Catholic Church, was confer by Rt. Rev. Bishop Joseph Aind SDB, the Bishop Emeritus of Dibrugarh Diocese. The ordination Mass was attended by a congregation of priests including Father John Zosiama the Salesian Provincial of Shillong, the Vice Provincials of Shillong, Guwahati and Dimapur Provinces, Rectors, professors and confessors, students of theology, and families of the ordinands. The Holy Mass, which marked the diaconate ordination, was held amidst a spirit of prayer and celebration. In his homily, Bishop Joseph Aind imparted words of wisdom and guidance to the newly ordained deacons. He reminded them of the sacred responsibilities entrusted to them in the diaconate ministry within the Church. The bishop emphasized the role of deacons as servants of God's people, called to proclaim the Gospel, assist in the celebration of the Eucharist, and serve those in need with humility and love. The rite of diaconate took place after the bishop's homily, where each candidate solemnly pledged their commitment to the service of the Church and received the laying on of hands by Bishop Joseph Aind sdb and the prayers of consecration. The ordination of 22 deacons at Sacred Heart Theological College not only marks a personal milestone for each ordinand but also reflects the Church's ongoing commitment to nurturing vocations and strengthening its ministry of service and evangelization. The diaconate ordination at Sacred Heart Theological College stands as a testament to the enduring tradition and vitality of the Church's sacramental life, inspiring all believers to embrace their own call to discipleship and service in the name of Christ.