Six New Priests Ordained for the Archdiocese of Bangalore

The Archdiocese of Bangalore witnessed a grace-filled and joyous occasion as six deacons were ordained to the Sacred Priesthood on 15 May 2026 at St. Francis Xavier’s Cathedral. The solemn Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Peter Machado in the presence of Auxiliary Bishops Rt. Rev. Arokiaraj Satis Kumar and Rt. Rev. Joseph Susainathan, along with priests, religious, seminarians, families, and a large gathering of faithful from across the Archdiocese.

The six newly ordained priests are:

1. Rev. Fr. Edward Harris – St. Anthony’s Church, T.C. Palya

2. Rev. Fr. Lukas Pinto – Sacred Heart Church, Silvepura

3. Rev. Fr. Patrick Sijen P. – Immaculate Conception Church, Doresanipalya

4. Rev. Fr. Sachin Vinanth R. – Holy Rosary Church, Harobele

5. Rev. Fr. Sanjay A. – St. Theresa’s Church, Theresapura

6. Rev. Fr. William Francis – Sts. Peter & Paul Church, Rayapuram

In his homily, Archbishop Peter Machado reflected on the beauty and responsibility of priestly ministry, reminding the newly ordained priests that they are called to become humble servants of God’s people. He encouraged them to remain rooted in prayer, faithful to the Gospel, and compassionate towards all those entrusted to their care.

Bishop Arokiaraj Satis Kumar called upon the new priests to be “joyful priests” who radiate the joy and mercy of Christ through their lives and ministry. He reminded them that people are inspired not only by words, but by priests who live with simplicity, kindness, and genuine concern for others.

Bishop Joseph Susainathan, speaking about the universality of priesthood, encouraged the newly ordained to become “priests for all,” reaching out especially to the poor, the suffering, the youth, and those searching for hope and meaning in life. He reminded them that the priesthood is a ministry of love, inclusion, and selfless service.

The ordination ceremony was deeply prayerful and spiritually moving, filled with sacred hymns and moments of silence. One of the most touching moments was when the candidates prostrated before the altar in complete surrender to God while the faithful prayed over them. The laying on of hands by the Archbishop and priests symbolised the gift of the Holy Spirit and the continuation of the apostolic mission of the Church. It was a profound moment of grace as these young men offered their lives in service to God and His people.

The faithful of the Archdiocese thanked God for the gift of these six new priests and assured them of their continued prayers and support. The bishops reminded the congregation that priests need the prayers, encouragement, and closeness of the faithful in order to remain joyful, faithful, and compassionate shepherds in today’s world.

Special gratitude was also expressed to the parents and families of the newly ordained priests for generously offering their sons for the service of the Church. Their sacrifices, prayers, and support were gratefully acknowledged by the Archdiocese.

The Archdiocese of Bangalore rejoices with the families, parish communities, formators, and well-wishers of the newly ordained priests and prays that their ministry may become a beacon of faith, hope, and love for all people. May these new priests continue to inspire many young people to courageously respond to God’s call and serve the Church with joy and dedication.