By Mathias Hariyadi
INDONESIA – The Archbishop of Medan warned newly ordained Capuchin priests against clericalism during an ordination Mass in Berastagi, North Sumatra, Indonesia, urging them to understand priesthood as service rather than status.
Archbishop Kornelius Sipayung ordained the priests during a solemn Eucharistic celebration at St Francis of Assisi Church in Sempajaya, Berastagi Parish, a two-hour drive from the capital of North Sumatra, on Sunday, Jan 24.
The ordination drew a large gathering of clergy, religious, lay faithful, and representatives of local government.
In his homily, Archbishop Kornelius cautioned against clericalism, which he described as a distorted understanding of ordination as a rise in rank or power.
“When ordination is seen as status, a priest may feel superior and resistant to correction. Ordination is not meant to exalt oneself, but to follow Christ who washed feet and gave His life,” he said.
He warned that clericalism often enters subtly through comfort, privileges, and everyday choices that distance priests from authentic service. He also cautioned against the temptation of power and popularity, particularly in the era of social media.
Continue reading in LiCAS.news.
