The Mill Hill Missionaries in India Region joyfully celebrated the Ordination to the Priesthood of Dn. Anil Kumar Kocherla, a moment of grace and thanksgiving for the Congregation and the local Church. He was ordained priest by Most Rev. Thelagathoti Joseph Raja Rao, Bishop of the Diocese of Vijayawada.
In his homily, the Bishop reflected on the meaning and significance of the priesthood, emphasising that priesthood is not based on personal worthiness or perfection, but is a gratuitous gift of God, rooted in His mercy and love. Addressing the ordinand directly, he reminded him to remain deeply grateful to God, to carry out the responsibilities entrusted to him with faith and obedience, and to serve God’s people with the commitment and compassion of the Good Shepherd. Turning to the faithful, the Bishop encouraged them to love and support their priests, recognising the sacrifices they make in offering their lives in loving service to the people entrusted to their care.
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The Eucharistic celebration was marked by a strong spirit of communion and fraternity. A number of Mill Hill members serving in the southern region, along with deanery priests of Muchinthala Parish, religious priests, and women religious from the surrounding areas, participated in the celebration.
Following the ordination, a fellowship meal was shared by all who were present. As a gesture of gratitude and affection, the newly ordained priest offered a token of love to the priests and religious who accompanied him and supported him on his journey to priesthood.
The celebration was a moment of deep joy for the Congregation, the local Church, and all those who continue to support Rev. Fr. Anil Kumar Kocherla with their prayers as he begins his priestly ministry.
Tomvenki Yellavula, MHM
Regional Representative – India Region
