The ordination of deacon Newton Obertson Sarker, CSC, the only child of his parents, was held with shows and pomp on December 1, 2023, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Shelabunia. Most Rev. James Romen Boiragi, D.D., Bishop of Khulna ordained deacon Sarker from the Congregation of Holy Cross Priests, with the active involvement of parishioners and a large number of priests, Brothers, and Sisters from various congregations and the diocese. Three days in a row were dedicated to the whole program for this ordination. Most Rev. James Romen Boiragi, D.D. was present in an honored parade that day to welcome the deacon from his village, Malgazi, together with traditional musical instruments.
After that, the whole assembly prayed before the Blessed Sacrament, asking for his well-being and the family’s prosperity because they had given their only child as a sign of sacrifice. Following the worship, the customary Mongolusthan took place, during which he was bathed with turmeric as a symbol of purity. Most Rev. James Romen Boiragi, D.D., ordained deacon Newton Sarker, CSC, amid all the elated faithful the next day. At the reception program, Fr. George K. Rozario, CSC, the provincial, as well as all speakers acknowledged him as a mature and exceptional person who has achieved remarkable success in both his pastoral and intellectual endeavors, having spent nearly eight years as a professed religious in the province.
The newly ordained priest celebrated his first Mass on December 2, 2023, giving thanks to God for all the blessings in his life and acknowledging all the contributions of all those who paved his way in this journey to fullness. The bishop of the diocese and a large number of priests concelebrated the Thanksgiving Eucharist together. At the beginning and end of this program, the villagers displayed and demonstrated all the traditional occupations of their ancestors and the cultural activities they have inherited for over a hundred years. Finally, the Congregation of Holy Cross greeted the newly ordained Priest Fr. Newton Obertson Sarker, CSC, with immense gladness.
