It was a warm, humid morning in Hera, Timor-Leste on Saturday 6 August when Br Amandio Soares Salsinha and Br Narcizio Da Costa Vilanova were ordained deacons by Cardinal-elect Dom Virgílio Do Carmo Da Silva.

The church was packed, and many more people gathered outside. Among the 40 concelebrants were Fr Paul Cahill (Prior Provincial), Fr Carlito Da Costa Araújo (Provincial Delegate for Timor-Leste), Fr Bruce Clark (Director of Formation) and Fr David Hofman (Communications Director). Fr Paul made the formal request of Archbishop Virgílio to ordain Amandio and Narcizio for service as deacons.

After Mass the people gathered at the Carmelite Community in Hera for the traditional feast, cutting of the cake and dancing. The celebrations continued well into the evening.

Watch a short video of the Procession of the Gifts at the Ordination.