NEWLY-ordained Darwin priest Fr Andric Dean Tobias Taberdo wanted his first words in his priestly ministry to be “thanks to God who draws us together in a communion of love and, who in love, also called me to the priesthood”.
“Out of the depths of my heart, I thank God,” he said.
Fr Taberdo has become the first Filipino priest ordained for Darwin diocese in 30 years.
Darwin Bishop Charles Gauci ordained Fr Taberdo at St Mary’s Star of the Sea Cathedral on May 24.
Bishop Gauci said Fr Taberdo was a “local boy” whose family lived in Palmerston.
He said Fr Taberdo’s mission as a priest was to walk alongside others, sharing Christ’s message.
“His ministry is one of love and trying to grow in the love of God,” he said.
“He is a human being like everybody else with his strengths and weaknesses.”
Bishop Gauci said it was the dedication and love for his calling that he wanted to praise.
He said priests were human with strengths and weaknesses, but it was their dedication and love for their calling that was praiseworthy.
Bishop Gauci also encouraged others to reflect on God’s plan for their lives and to live their Christian faith with humility and compassion.
Fr Taberdo expressed his gratitude to God, Our Lady, his family, and the bishops and priests who have supported him throughout his journey.
He also thanked Vice Consul Angela Laurente of the Embassy of the Philippines in Canberra, who congratulated him on becoming the first Filipino priest ordained in the Northern Territory and the first priest ordained in Darwin diocese in nearly three decades.
The historic ordination coincided with the Philippines-Australia Friendship Day, celebrated on May 22, highlighting the strong ties between the two countries.
More than 7000 Filipinos live in the Northern Territory
