Deacon James Rapeka, a Newly Ordain Priest, Diocese of Gizo
This day signifies another blessing for the Diocese of Gizo: Deacon James Rapeka has been ordained as a priest to serve the diocese.
The church was indeed filled with a sense of gratitude as parishioners, relatives, and friends gathered to witness this sacred ceremony.
The presence of numerous loved ones fostered a warm and supportive environment for Deacon James, who today took a significant step in his faith journey by becoming a priest to serve the Body of Christ.
Prior to the opening Mass, a relative of Fr. James Rapeka expressed their gratitude to God for presenting Deacon James Rapeka to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The family representative, on behalf of their family and the local church of the Tiqe community at Tangarare Parish, Archdiocese of Honiara, presented Deacon James Rapeka for the Diocese of Gizo, along with the entire congregation.
He stated that after many years of prayer, discernment, theological education, pastoral ministry, and dedicated preparation, Deacon James has approached the church seeking ordination to the sacred priesthood.
Today, they expressed their gratitude to God for calling another servant into the vineyard. They conveyed their heartfelt appreciation to all who contributed to Deacon James' formation and spiritual development, particularly his parents, family members, mentors, fellow seminarians, and the people of the Diocese of Gizo.
At that moment, they presented Deacon James as a deserving candidate for ordination to the sacred priesthood.
The ordination ceremony was presided over by His Excellency, Bishop Peter Houhou, who delivered an inspiring message centered on vocation, emphasizing that God may choose any of us to become Religious and serve the church.
He also emphasized the difficulties faced by priests, while acknowledging that through God's grace, salvation is attainable. Furthermore, creating robust mentorship networks among priests and diocesan leaders could promote transparency.
The solemn liturgy and the joy of the occasion resonated throughout the Cathedral, accompanied by choirs from Fr. James Rapeka's family. See less