Shillong 15 January: The Province of St. John Paul II, Shillong together with the Diocese of Tezpur, Assam, rejoiced in gratitude to God on 14 January 2026 as Fr. Kandulna Joseph, SDB was ordained a priest at Mary Help of Christians Parish, Missaari, Sonitpur. The solemn celebration marked a moment of grace not only for the local Church but also for the Salesian Congregation and the young people to whom Fr. Kandulna now offers his priestly service.
The days leading up to the ordination were filled with prayerful and joyful preparation, reflecting the faith and enthusiasm of the parish community. On the ordination day, Most Rev. Bishop Michael Akasius Toppo, DD, was accorded a warm and festive welcome, accompanied by a traditional procession and vibrant cultural dances. The Deacon, along with numerous priests, religious men and women, and the faithful, joined in this meaningful celebration. A large gathering from various parts of the region, including the Khasi faithful from Mawjrong, Meghalaya, where the new priest had served as a Deacon, added to the joy of the occasion.
Welcoming the assembly, the Parish Priest, Fr. Mathew Vazziapilil, expressed heartfelt gratitude and joy on behalf of the parishioners for this precious gift of a new priest to the Church. The liturgical celebration was prayerfully animated by the Parish Youth Choir, whose hymns lifted hearts in praise and thanksgiving. The solemn Eucharistic celebration concluded shortly after noon, leaving the faithful deeply inspired.
In his words of thanksgiving, Fr. Kandulna expressed his profound gratitude to God for the gift of vocation and to all who accompanied him on his journey. He thanked the Bishop, his Salesian confreres, his family, and the faithful for their prayers, love, and support.
The afternoon felicitation programme, which began at 1:00 pm, further reflected the joy of the day through cultural performances, tributes, and messages of encouragement. Addressing the gathering, Bishop Toppo spoke on the identity of a priest as a shepherd, pastor, father, and prophet, called to model his life on Christ in all seasons. He encouraged the newly ordained priest to live his ministry with gratitude, courage, and youthful enthusiasm, invoking God’s abundant blessings upon his priestly mission.
In his response, Fr. Kandulna shared the inspiration behind his priestly motto, “Serve the Lord with gladness” (Psalm 100:2). He humbly sought the continued prayers of all and assured them of his own prayers and blessings.
The day concluded in an atmosphere of deep joy and thanksgiving, as the community rejoiced together for “the day the Lord has made,” confident that Fr. Kandulna Joseph, SDB, will serve God’s people with the heart of Don Bosco and the joy of the Gospel.
