By Stephen Then
MIRI — The population of 90,000 Catholics in Miri Diocese in northern Sarawak welcomed two new priests on Wednesday (Dec 30).
Deacons Henry Saleh and Ronald Jimmy were ordained priests by Bishop Richard Ng at around noon, witnessed by family members and other priests at the St Dominic and The Rosary Church.
The ceremony was held under strict Covid-19 standard operating procedure, with limited attendance.
Bishop Ng reminded the two new priests, both in their 30s, to be dedicated and faithful to their callings to serve God and the church.
“You are called to serve God and the church and the people.
“Be faithful in preaching the Gospel and in your sacramental duties and serve with joy. Put into practice what you preach,” he said.
They must serve as shepherds in the footsteps of Jesus Christ, he added.
After their ordination, Father Henry and Father Ronald expressed their gratitude to God for the blessings of being able to serve as priests.
They also thanked Bishop Ng and their mentors and family members for helping them to reach priesthood.
They pledged to serve the church loyally.
The Miri Catholic Diocese spans the whole of northern Sarawak from the northernmost point of Lawas district to the remote places of Belaga district.
