Aravind Royce ordained priest

On : 2023-11-06

Deacon Aravind Royce was ordained a priest on November 4 at St Joseph's Boys High School oratory in Bengaluru. The ceremony was led by archbishop Peter Machado. Scores of  Jesuits, religious and immediate and extended family members and friends of Fr Royce attended the ceremony.

The solemn celebration commenced with the eucharistic celebration presided over by archbishop Machado. In his homily, the archbishop invoked the words of the scripture: "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens." He made this reference in the context of the postponement of Fr Royce’s ordination due to his ill health. He further explained the profound responsibilities a priest holds in serving his people. "The burden need not necessarily be burdensome; but it can be a source of sweetness and grace," he said. The melodious choir by the scholastics from regional theological centre, Anekal added to the solemnity of the occasion.

After the eucharistic celebration, Fr Aravind Royce and his parents were felicitated. Fr Ashwin Cordeiro, spoke about Fr Aravind Royce's transformative journey. Fr Dionysius Vaz SJ, Provincial of Karnataka province, spoke on the role of devout families in fostering vocations for priesthood and religious life. He thanked parents, parish priest, and all others who had played an important role in nurturing Fr Aravind Royce on his spiritual journey.

- Larren Menezes SJ