The Korean Jesuit Province welcomed four new priests on 3 July during a ceremony held in the Myeongdong Cathedral of the Archdiocese of Seoul. The ordination Mass, celebrated by Most Rev Han-taek Joseph Lee, Bishop Emeritus of Uijeongbu, saw Joon-min Daniel Chung, Hong-cheol Augustine Jeong, Jae-seok Francis Choi, and Yoon-ho John the Baptist Do begin their priestly ministry.
The ceremony was attended by priests, religious members, and lay faithful, all praying that the new priests would live their lives dedicated to serving the poor and those in need.
In his homily, Bishop Lee emphasised the core duties of a priest, encouraging them to: “Meditate on the law of God, believe what you read, teach what you believe, and practice what you teach.” He stressed that priests are called to serve God’s people and build the Church through words and example. He further urged the new priests to always look to Christ, the Good Shepherd, who came not to be served but to serve and to save the lost sheep.
The newly ordained priests shared their reflections in a video interview released just before the ordination. Fr Daniel Jeong expressed that the Jesuits are a precious community that shares a common longing. Fr Augustine Jeong conveyed his gratitude for the support of his Jesuit brothers throughout his formation. Fr Francis Choi confessed that he grew both as a person and as a Jesuit during his formation years. Lastly, Fr John Do stressed that ordination is not an end but another beginning, and he aspires to continue his journey and become a better Jesuit.
Fr Yong-su Paschal KIM, Provincial Superior of the Korean Province, extended special thanks to all benefactors, the families of the newly ordained, and especially to Jesuit Bishop Lee for celebrating the ordination Mass despite the sweltering weather and his advanced age.
He also reminded the new priests to remain humble and serve the faithful with love and dedication, acknowledging the prayers and support they received from the community. “The faithful are the cherished ones who convey God’s love with every step,” he said, adding, “Until now, you have received formation within the Jesuit community, but henceforth, it will be the faithful who will guide you on how to live your life as priests.” [Korean Province]