ANTIQUE, Philippines – In a joyful and vibrant ceremony, Cristiano Sumbat, a Malaysian Mill Hill Missionary, was ordained a priest on Feb 7 at St Teresa of Avila parish in Casay, Anini-y. The ordination was officiated by Bishop Marvyn Abrea Maceda of the Diocese of San Jose de Antique, who delivered a powerful message of hope and service to the newly ordained priest.
During his address, Bishop Marvyn reminded Fr Cristiano of his role as a servant of Christ, emphasising that his mission is to glorify Christ through his service to the people. “Mission is in Christ and about Christ,” the bishop said, urging Fr Cristiano to always remember that it is Christ who must be honoured through his work.
Fr Cristiano, who hails from St John’s parish in Tuaran, Sabah, Malaysia, marks a significant milestone in the Mill Hill Missionaries’ presence in the region. The Mill Hill Missionaries have been serving in Borneo since their arrival in 1881, and with the ordination of Fr Cristiano, Malaysia now has three Mill Hill priests. This marks a notable shift, as Malaysia is not only a recipient of missionaries but is also now sending priests to serve the global Church.
The Mill Hill family in Malaysia expressed deep gratitude to God for His continued blessings, especially the gift of priestly ordination. In addition, the community extended heartfelt thanks to Fr Cristiano’s family, the ordaining bishop, Most Rev Marvyn, the Mill Hill Missionaries in the Philippines, the parish priest, Fr Niki Abba, and all the parishioners of St Teresa of Avila for their support and generosity in making the ordination celebration a success.
As Fr Cristiano prepares to embark on his mission in Cambodia, prayers continue for his success and the fulfillment of his calling. – Herald Malaysia
