'I only chose to follow Christ': Two new priests ordained in Bathurst diocese

After more than eight years of study, formation and preparation in the parishes of the Bathurst Diocese and at the Seminary of the Good Shepherd, Homebush, the pair were ordained in front of family, friends, and supporters.

Many of the guests attending travelled from interstate and overseas to be part of the celebration.

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The ordination marks an exciting time for both Karl and Dong, but also for the Catholic Diocese of Bathurst, which last celebrated an ordination in 2014.

As newly ordained priests, Karl has been appointed as assistant priest in the Parish of St Mary and St Joseph, Orange; and Dong has been appointed to the Parish of Mary of the Presentation, Mudgee, as assistant priest.

When Deacon Dong, who originates from the Vinh Diocese, Vietnam, was asked about his calling to the priesthood said it was "all about following Christ."

"I neither chose Bathurst nor the priesthood. I only chose to follow Christ and to serve his Church."

As for how he was to best achieve this calling he said "a priest for the Diocese of Bathurst has always been the clearest answer God has provided him."

When talking about what he is looking forward to as being a priest, Deacon Karl said, "I think more than anything, it's that I am ready to get to work.

"I have been in formation since the beginning of 2012 and so after so many years preparing, I am ready to get to work celebrating the Mass, anointing the sick, and working alongside other priests in the vineyard of the Lord".

Following his ordination, Fr Dong celebrated his first Mass of Thanksgiving in the Cathedral of St Michael and St John on Saturday while Fr Karl celebrated his first Mass of Thanksgiving in the Chapel of St Stanislaus' College.