Abu Dhabi: Two deacons one from Karnataka and another from Kerala from the Order of Capuchin Friars Minor were ordained as priests at an outdoor ceremony held at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Abu Dhabi. It is the maiden priestly ordination ceremony in the UAE.

Apostolic Vicar of Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia, Bishop Paul Hinder ordained two young deacons Fr. Arun Raj of the St. Francis of Assisi Capuchin Province, Kerala and Fr. Darick Paul D’Souza of Holy Trinity Capuchin Province, Karnataka as priests.

Both the deacons lived in the United Arab Emirates during their younger years with their parents, in Dubai and Abu Dhabi respectively. Bishop Paul Hinder played a pivotal role in guiding the two deacons along their journey to the priesthood and hence the ceremony was held in Abu Dhabi.

Fr. Joseph Pais, Provincial of the Holy Trinity Capuchin Province, Karnataka, Br. John Baptist, Vicar Provincial of the St. Francis of Assisi Capuchin Province, Kerala, Vicar General of AVOSA Fr. Troy, Priests and religious sisters from different Parishes and convents of the vicariate, Family members and well wishers of both the new priests were present during the ceremony which was witnessed by over 4000 parishioners.

A brief cultural programme was arranged after the mass. During the programmme Fr. Darick who hails from Shirva Parish in Udupi honoured Bishop Paul Hinder with traditional Mysuru Peta. Bishop Paul gave his message during the event. A spiritual skit followed.