“On the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, the Vice Province of Afrique de l’Ouest celebrated two significant occasions: the ordination of seven confreres as deacons to the Church and the entire Congregation, and the 25th anniversary of Rev. Fr. BATIONO Philippe, C.Ss.R. commitment to vows, on 14 September 2024 at Ouagadougou Burkina Faso, St Gerard Formation House.
The Vice-Provincial Superior, Rev. Fr. Nobila Olivier SAWADOGO, C.Ss.R., invited the Apostolic Nuncio to Burkina Faso and Niger, Most Rev. Michael Francis Crotty, to ordain the seven confreres from the Vice Province of Afrique de l’Ouest as deacons and witness Rev. Fr. BATIONO Philippe’s 25 years of commitment.
In his homily, Most Rev. Michael Francis Crotty thanked the Vice Provincial Superior for the opportunity to participate in the occasion. He urged the would-be deacons to cultivate humility and patience as they understand the message of the Holy Cross of Christ, emphasizing their role as “servants of the Lord.” He encouraged them to imitate the early apostles, chosen for their charity and wisdom.
Addressing the congregation, he outlined the duties and responsibilities of a deacon and the expectations for the seven newly ordained. Congratulating Rev. Fr. BATIONO Philippe on his perseverance, he encouraged him to continue living his vows joyfully.
In conclusion, Most Rev. Crotty reminded the confreres to live their faith conscientiously and become true ministers of Christ. He congratulated them and prayed for the Blessed Virgin Mary’s intercession as they serve the people of God.
Following the homily, the ordination rite proceeded, and Rev. Fr. BATIONO Philippe renewed his religious vows. The newly ordained deacons received a copy of a prayer book each to pray for the whole Church and the world.
At the end of the celebration, the Vice-Provincial Superior presented a gift to the Apostolic Nuncio, congratulating him on his new appointment as Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria.
The eight confrères expressed their gratitude to the Vice Provincial, the Vice Province, and the Apostolic Nuncio for witnessing their ordination and anniversary celebration. A joyful photo shoot followed, capturing the happiness of the occasion.
To God be the glory!
Fr. Mark, CSsR.
Communication office of the Vice-Province of Afrique de L’Ouest
