PALAYAMKOTAI, INDIA
7-20-2011

Fr. Theresian Babu Xavier, a native of India, was recently ordained at St. Thomas Aquinas Seminary in Winona, MN, where he studied for the priesthood. Having returned to his country as well as his first priestly assignment, Fr. Babu offered one of his First Masses on July 9 in the Most Holy Trinity Chapel of the priory at Palayamkotai.

The occasion of the first Mass is a big event for the SSPX in India, so everyone lends a hand to prepare for this important ceremony.

During the Solemn First Mass, Fr. Theresian was assisted by Frs. Yves Le Roux (his former seminary rector), Robert Brucciani (prior at Palayamkotai) as deacon and Francois Chazal (stationed in India) as subdeacon.

The Asia District Superior, Fr. Daniel Couture, preached the sermon which Mr. Xavier, the father of the new priest, translated into Tamoul, the local Indian dialect.

In addition to the presence of Fr. Theresian’s family, 500 people from the south of India came to rally round their Fr. Babu (pronounced as Babou), who was born in the village of Palayamkotai. Many priestly friends of the SSPC were also present.

After the festive Mass, the day continued with a luncheon and speeches.

The USA District congratulates Fr. Xavier on his ordination and First Mass in his native country, and may his priestly work be fruitful for the sanctification and salvation of souls.

From left to right: Fr. Anthony Swami (Trichy), Fr. Methodius (Tuticorin), Fr. Julian (Tuticorin), Fr. Xavier Ignatius (Tuticorin), Fr. Albert Ghela (with the SSPX in the Philippines).

News contribution from Asia District.