On December 30, 2025, the Diocese of Gulbarga was filled with deep joy and thanksgiving as a significant milestone was marked in its spiritual journey. In a solemn and grace-filled Eucharistic celebration held at the Mother of Divine Grace Cathedral, Most Rev. Dr. Robert Miranda, Bishop of Gulbarga, ordained Deacon Ancy Vion Lobo as a priest for the diocese.
Rev. Fr. Ancy Vion Lobo, hailing from Loretto Parish, Mangalore, responded generously to God’s call, offering his life in service to the Church and the people of God. The sacred rite of ordination, marked by the Laying on of Hands and the Prayer of Ordination, was a powerful moment that moved the hearts of all present, reminding the faithful of Christ the Eternal High Priest who continues His mission through His ministers.
The cathedral was filled to capacity with priests, religious sisters, seminarians, family members, and lay faithful, all united in prayer and gratitude. The liturgy reflected the richness of the Church’s tradition, emphasizing the call to serve with humility, obedience, and pastoral charity.
In his homily, Bishop Robert Miranda exhorted the newly ordained priest to be a shepherd after the heart of Christ, rooted in prayer, faithful to the Word of God, and compassionate toward the poor and the marginalized. He encouraged Fr. Ancy to live his priesthood as a sign of hope and unity, especially in the mission territories of the diocese.
Following the Holy Mass, a felicitation programme was held to honour the new priest. Messages of congratulations and appreciation highlighted Fr. Ancy’s journey of faith, formation, and dedication. The presence and prayers of his family added a deeply personal and emotional dimension to the celebration.
The Priestly Ordination of Fr. Ancy Vion Lobo stands as a moment of immense grace and blessing for the Diocese of Gulbarga. It was truly a day of joy, gratitude, and renewed hope, as the local Church rejoiced in the gift of a new shepherd called to serve God’s people with faith, love, and missionary zeal.
