Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil. On Saturday, June 24, 2023, Bishop Argemiro de Azevedo, CMF, of the Diocese of Assis, Brazil, Ordained Deacon Eduardo Henrique de Souza Rodrigues, CMF, during a joyous celebration at the Basilica of Our Lady of Lourdes in Belo Horizonte.
The ordination that was held during the Feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, was attended by a large congregation. Members of the Claretian Congregation, including four members of the Provincial Government, priests from various religious congregations, local clergy, and individuals from different dioceses across Brazil, were present. Additionally, friends, family, and supporters of Deacon Eduardo, hailing from his hometown of Lajinha, MG, and other cities where he served as a Claretian missionary, also attended the ceremony.
During the ceremony, Bishop Argemiro emphasized the priest’s role in serving the Church and offering himself as a living sacrifice in the likeness of Christ. He encouraged the newly ordained priest to remain steadfast in prayer, trust in the Lord, and emulate the missionary life, love for the Eucharist, and zeal for preaching exemplified by St. Anthony Mary Claret.
After the ordination, Fr. Eduardo received warm embraces and the kiss of the hands from Bishop Argemiro and all the attending priests. His family members and relatives also expressed their support and love.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, the act of ordination was read and signed by those in charge, and the Provincial Superior extended his greetings to Fr. Eduardo, wishing him a fruitful ministry. In a heartfelt tribute on behalf of the family, his sister, Ivana Rodrigues, honored their deceased mother, Mrs. Aureni Rodrigues. A photograph of their mother was taken, evoking deep emotions among the attendees.
Following the ordination ceremony, Fr. Eduardo celebrated his first Mass on Sunday morning, June 25, at the Basilica of Our Lady of Lourdes. The Mass was attended by numerous faithful and was concelebrated by several priests. During the Mass, Fr. Eduardo expressed his gratitude and emphasized the importance of offering Christ to the people through good catechesis, preaching, and love for God and neighbour.
Source: Gabriel Coutinho, Communication incharge, Province of Brazil.
