Blessed Are Those Invited to the Lord’s Table

On Saturday 25 July, the ordination to the diaconate of four members of the Schoenstatt Fathers’ community took place: Bernardo Rocha e Melo (from Portugal), Lucas Botassio (from Brazil), Héctor Islas and Rodrigo Fernández (both from Mexico). A large number of family members, friends and young people from various shrines celebrated alongside the community of the Schoenstatt Fathers this significant step on their journey towards the priesthood.

The celebration was characterised by a family atmosphere and by the affection shown to the ordinands. The bishop himself, Monsignor Andrés Ferrada, expressed great closeness to the four men and their families through his gestures and his homily. Furthermore, it was very evident that the new deacons have left their mark wherever they have been in their various ministries, accompanying young people in so many places: the community of the ‘Señor de la Misericordia’ chapel in Puente Alto, where Bernardo has lived for the past year; their regency locations; and their countries of origin… At the same time, their words of thanks at the end of the ordination showed that they, too, have been shaped by so many people along their life’s journey—people who helped them grow and love more deeply, and who opened their hearts so that they might discover Jesus in everyone who shares their table.

On Sunday, the new deacons took part in Masses at various locations. Rodrigo at the Los Pinos shrine, where he has been working with young people over recent years; Bernardo in Puente Alto; and Lucas and Héctor at the Colegio Mayor, which has been their home throughout their formation.

The weekend provided an opportunity for many gatherings amongst the community, families and friends. The motto of their ordination was truly brought to life during these days. The shared table became a table of joy and fellowship. Getting to know the deacons’ families and friends better also helps us to understand them better, as it tells us about their roots and the bonds of their origins. It was a great gift for all of us to be able to share these days together.

These days have also confirmed once again that the time spent in Chile has been full of experiences and deep bonds that have been treasured in their hearts and have helped them to mature in their priesthood. With hearts full of gratitude for all the kindness they have received over these years, the new deacons will soon return to their home countries to prepare for their priestly ordinations. Thank you for your support and prayers throughout these years of formation!

Gergely Ferenc Palásthy

From: Vínculo Magazine, Issue No. 403, August 2026.