In heaven the angels sing with joy and on earth people are filled with happiness. Many people from various places gathered together in Saint Francis Assisi Parish (in the city of Arroyos y Estero, Asuncion) on the occasion of the ordination of a new priest, a new pastor, a new man who desires to serve and to become “neighbor”, surrendering his life to the will of God in the Province of Argentina.
On December 12, 2020, at 8:00am, there began one of the most important and emotional moments in the life of Lorenzo Pereira, CM, a moment that will mark him forever.
Family, friends and members of the Vincentian Family accompanied Lorenzo with their presence as well as many people who experienced this event virtually, through the various social networks. All were united in prayer for the same purpose: the vocation of Lorenzo.
I do, with the grace of God. Those were the words that resounded firmly and surely from the man who desired to consecrate himself freely to God. He recognized that he needed something more, needed to trust in divine grace that would be gifted him by God.
After those promises, prayers, imposition of hands and vesting in liturgical garments, the ordination ceremony, presided by Bishop Amancio Benítez (bishop of the Diocese of Benjamín Aceval) was concluded with an embrace of peace and the affirmation of the people. The choir animated the celebration with their song and the community, that had gathered together, gave a thunderous applause.
Father Lorenzo concluded the celebration by thanking the many people who made this event possible, highlighting the person who always accompanied him from heaven, his father.
On such a festive occasion, there was much sharing. As people then gathered in the municipal hall, they were greeted by various artists who animated the celebration with their song and dance and poetry. People shared a typical meal, and each place setting had a souvenir (made of honey and sugar cane, the primary product of this area). Thus, the long-awaited day was concluded with profound gratitude that flooded the hearts of those who contributed and participated in these festivities.
A new missionary priest was in their midst, one who through his example and commitment was willing to serve others, especially those persons abandoned and forgotten. He had said “yes” to following Jesus Christ evangelizing the poor. We now pray for him, for his vocation and for his happiness. We pray that through the Spirit of God he might be a true instrument of God’s love.
Paul Barrera
Seminarist:
Province of Argentina
