"An immense hymn of praise" – this is how Monsignor Ernesto Mandara began on Saturday, September 6, opening the homily for the presbyteral consecration rite of our brother Antonio and the deacons Samuele Tassi and Justus Achibiri. It was an intense celebration, full of emotions and expectations, marked by tears of joy: truly a hymn of praise overflowing from the hearts of those present, who came in great numbers to fill the church of San Martino in Monterotondo (Rome).
The metaphor chosen by the three ordinands to accompany their consecration is the Gospel image of the seed that, by dying, bears fruit (Jn 12:24-26): a paradox that nevertheless reveals a profound truth. The bishop focused on this image: the authentic presbyter – he emphasized – is the one who allows himself to be consumed by dedication to the flock, who gives himself without reserve in apostolic work, carefully caring for the people entrusted to him, even when storms and tempests loom. This is the concrete and demanding reality of priestly ministry, and it is the paternal charge that Monsignor Mandara entrusted to the three candidates.
The rite then unfolded all its symbolic power, almost translating into sacramental language the metaphor of the seed that dies: the ordinands lay prostrate on the ground, for a long time, while the assembly invoked the saints; then, in silence and with the utmost solemnity, the bishop – followed by the many concelebrating priests – laid hands on each of them. After the consecratory prayer, like the seed that sprouts and bears fruit, the new presbyters were vested in priestly garments and anointed on the hands with sacred chrism: a sign of their new identity, the sanctifying presence of Christ the Good Shepherd who gives his life for his sheep.
.jpeg "Papal audience, Vatican City, December 18, 2025")