Sweden Blessed With Newly Ordained Priest

His Grace Mar Odisho Oraham, Bishop of Europe, has laid his blessed right hand on Deacon Alan Odisho and raised him to the ranking of priesthood, allowing him to serve as the official priest in St Steven’s Church in Khovdi, Sweden.

The holy service and inspiring event, which took place on 11 December 2010, was witnessed by a large company of faithful at St Mary’s Church in Jankoping, Sweden.

Present at the ordination were Reverend Daniel Shimon, parish priest of St Mary’s Church in Jonkoping, Reverend Nilus Paul, parish priest of St Thomas’ Parish in Stockholm, Reverend Isaac, parish priest of St Kuriakos’ Church in Linkoping, and Reverend Ishmael Tymers, parish priest of the missions in Greece and Belgium.

After the completion of the ceremony His Grace Mar Odisho, along with all priests and deacons, shared in fellowship in a nearby hall for a light breakfast to celebrate the new priest in the Diocese of Europe.

His Grace gave a short and sweet speech where he blessed the rank of the newly ordained priest. Directing his advice to Rev. Alan, His Grace urged the new priest to obey the laws of the church of the Holy Synod, while continuing to work for the church with 100 per cent faith and love in the vineyard of the Lord.

Rev. Alan, in his inaugural speech as an ordained priest, thanked everyone for their support and organisation of the blessed and memorable day.

He gave his personal thanks to all the priests and deacons for their love and support during this commencement of a new life in working for the church.

Rev. Alan was ordained a deacon in Greece by His Grace Mar Odisho in 2000, and served the church through deaconhood for 10 years before being blessed with further duties in serving the church through the ranking of priesthood.

Rev. Alan’s duties will include offering the Holy Eucharist, performing baptisms, service of matrimony, prayers, visits and all other church services.