The blue sky and warm sunshine at Weetebula provided the perfect backdrop for a special moment at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, when nine Redemptorist brothers stepped into a new stage of service as deacons on 5th June 2025. But their story is not just about an ordination ceremony. It’s a story of love, tradition, and a deep life calling, all woven into one beautiful journey.
A day before the ordination, the Provincial House of the Redemptorists felt different. The brothers arrived with their parents and families. Some had come from far away, bringing with them hopes and prayers. Following Sumbanese tradition, the parents brought two pigs as a symbol of gratitude and support for their sons who have chosen this special path. A simple gesture, yet deeply meaningful.
The Provincial Superior welcomed them in a traditional ceremony—a moment that felt warm and full of spiritual and cultural meaning. It was as if he was saying, “You are not alone. We are with you.”
“In Your Faithful Love I Trust”
As the Cathedral bell rang on the afternoon of June 5, people began to gather. The Cathedral was filled with joyful faces. The entrance dance and song were performed with great enthusiasm. The atmosphere turned solemn when the names of the nine brothers were called:
Akuila Maris, CSsR
Andreas Beda Asimu, CSsR
Dominikus Maxi Bulu, CSsR
Fransiskus Tibu Kelen, CSsR
Fulgensius Avelinus Ora, CSsR
Heribertus Geroda Hayon, CSsR
Kristoforus Akri Deodatus, CSsR
Yosep Rebang Muda, CSsR
Yohanes Lambertus Haeng, CSsR
They stepped calmly toward the altar. Before Bishop Edmund Woga, CSsR, they offered their lives. This year’s ordination theme was: “In Your faithful love I trust.” Nine words representing a big step of faith.
In his homily, Bishop Edmund invited everyone—especially the brothers—to learn from the story of the Apostles. Becoming a deacon is not about status, but about the heart. A deacon must be honest, simple, trustworthy. One must be brave enough to read the signs of the times, to listen to the voice of the people, and to serve sincerely—not for show.
“Ministry is not a stage. It is an altar where we offer ourselves,” Bishop Edmund said firmly. He also emphasized the importance of obedience—not as a burden, but as a sign of trust that the Holy Spirit works through the Church. Every task is not just an assignment, but a mission.
After the ordination, the new deacons will serve in various areas in Sumba and Flores. They will live among the people, learning more deeply what it means to be a servant of the Church. Then, on October 22, they will be ordained as priests. Their journey is still long, but a big step has already begun.
After the Mass, the atmosphere turned into a celebration of faith. There were hugs, laughter, and tears of joy. Gaudeamus was sung with great spirit—a symbol of true joy. Nothing was fake. Everything came from hearts full of gratitude.
This is not just a story about nine brothers. It’s a story of hope, of calling, and of a faithful God who continues to call and walk with us. And maybe… it’s also a reminder for all of us: to dare to trust, like they did, in God’s faithful love.
Fr. Willy Ng Pala, CSsR.
