On the Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist, the Diocese of Da Nang celebrated a momentous occasion with the ordination of six new priests.
The priestly ordination Mass was held at 5:00 a.m. at Da Nang Cathedral on June 24 and was presided over by Joseph Đặng Đức Ngân, Metropolitan Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Huế.
In his homily, the prelate reflected on the priestly vocation as a journey of discipleship after Christ.
“The priesthood is a mystery of love and self-giving,” he said. “A priest is not chosen to glorify himself but to become a living sign of Christ among the people of God. A true shepherd dares to live for others, serves with mercy, and sacrifices with all his heart."
The archbishop also pointed to Saint John the Baptist as an exemplary model for priests, emphasizing humility, bold witness, and self-effacement—citing his famous words: “He must increase; I must decrease” (John 3:30).
After the homily, the ordination rite reached its sacred climax. Each candidate was formally presented and professed his promise of fidelity. The Litany of Saints was sung as the congregation knelt, invoking divine grace upon the ordinands.
The most solemn moment came when the archbishop laid hands on each of the six candidates and pronounced the Prayer of Ordination, officially consecrating them as priests of Christ.
At the close of the Mass, one of the newly ordained priests delivered a message of gratitude on behalf of his companions: “We are deeply aware that the priesthood is a call to serve the salvation of all, following the example of Jesus, who willingly offered Himself on the Cross for the love of humankind. Therefore, we earnestly ask our bishops, priests, deacons, religious, benefactors, relatives, and the entire community to continue praying for us so that we may remain faithful to the path God has chosen for us and courageously bear witness to the Gospel in today’s world.”
Though the liturgy concluded, the spiritual grace and joy of the occasion continue to echo throughout the Diocese of Da Nang, marking a new chapter of faith and service in the life of the local Church.
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