Fr Robert Daniel celebrates 25 years of priesthood

Sep 20, 2024

IPOH: The Church of Our Lady of Lourdes celebrated the 25th sacerdotal anniversary of its parish priest, Fr Robert Daniel Francis, on September 8 with Mass

A son of the parish, Fr Robert was ordained on the same day in 1999, alongside Msgr Jude Miranda and Fr Michael Dass.

In his homily, Fr Robert reflected on his journey, expressing the same nervousness and fear that he felt on his ordination day 25 years ago. He drew inspiration from the Gospel of Matthew 19:29, which reads: “And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life.” He acknowledged the faithful in attendance as living witnesses to this promise.

Following the post-communion prayer, Fr Robert knelt at the centre of the altar sanctuary as the congregation prayed over him.

To commemorate this special milestone, parishioners were given bookmarks as a token of remembrance.

The celebration continued at the parish hall, where Fr Robert greeted and mingled with the community. A sumptuous meal and a cake-cutting ceremony added to the festivities, marking the joyous occasion.

Heartfelt congratulations, Fr Robert, on your 25 years of dedicated ministry. We celebrate the incredible person you are and the extraordinary priest you’ve become. May your faith continue to inspire us and may your path be forever illuminated by the Lord’s grace. Pauline Sundram