Answer the call to serve with faithful devotion, Bishop Khalid
Quetta: On May 24, 2024, His Excellency Bishop Khalid Rehmat, Bishop of the Apostolic Vicariate of Quetta, graciously presided over the Holy Mass for the Ordination to the Priesthood of Deacon Bernard Alfred SDB at Mary, Help of Christians Church (Don Basco Chappel), Essa Nagri Colony, Quetta.
The Mass was concelebrated by Fr. Samuel Adnan SDB and Fr. Noble Lal SDB. A large and devout congregation, including a number of clergy, Fr. Brian Butanas SDB from the Philippines, religious sisters, and the faithful, attended the Holy Mass. The readings were taken from the Book of Revelation, Galatians, and the Gospel was taken from the Gospel of St. John.
In his homily, Bishop Khalid Rehmat extended warm congratulations to the parents of Deacon Bernard Alfred and the formators, and reflected on the significance of the Sacrament of Priesthood, highlighting the crucial choice between materialism and spirituality. He declared, ‘Today is a momentous occasion as we celebrate the feast of Our Lady, Help of Christians, marking the ordination anniversary of two of our priests, Fr. Samuel Adnan SDB and Fr. Noble Lal SDB, as well as the ordination of Deacon Bernard Alfred SDB.’
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The Bishop continued, ‘The Holy Bible bestows numerous sacred titles upon Mother Mary, which we reverently invoke in the Litany of the Holy Mary. We are profoundly blessed to have Mother Mary’s constant presence and guidance, especially during challenging times.’
Addressing Deacon Bernard Alfred, Bishop Khalid Rehmat offered sage advice: ‘As you embark on this sacred journey, I urge you to perform the Sacraments with genuine religious fervor and devotion. From this day forward, a great responsibility rests on your shoulders. Remember Jesus’ words, ‘You did not choose me, but I have chosen you’ (John 15:16). Embrace your divine calling with obedience and trust, and witness the transformative impact on your life and the lives of those you serve.’
In conclusion, the Bishop prayed for Deacon Bernard Alfred as he begins a new chapter in his religious life, exhorting him to remain obedient and serve as a faithful servant of God.”
In his heartfelt remarks, Fr. Bernard Alfred SDB expressed his gratitude, saying, ‘It is a profound honor for any family to offer their son or daughter to serve the Church.’ He humbly acknowledged that his journey towards priesthood was not an easy one, sharing a poignant experience: ‘About 7-8 months ago, when I was a Deacon, my father was struggling with kidney failure while I was in the Philippines. I was faced with a difficult decision – to stay with my father indefinitely to care for his health or to visit him for 21 days and then return to the Philippines. When I visited my father, he selflessly told me to complete God’s mission, assuring me not to worry about his health.’
Fr. Bernard Alfred SDB continued, ‘Today, I am deeply thankful to my parents, teachers, and all those who supported me throughout my seminary life. Their guidance, encouragement, and sacrifices have shaped me into the person I am today. I am grateful for their unwavering trust in God’s plan.’
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