Two Jesuits Ordained to the Priesthood in Timor-Leste
“But we hold this treasure in earthen vessels, so that what is sublime may be of the power of God, and not of us.” (2 Corinthians 4:7).
These words from Saint Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians served as the presbyterate ordination motto of our two new Jesuit priests, Fr. Justino Soares Boavida, SJ, and Fr. Marcos Apu Colo, SJ, who were ordained on Saturday, 13 June 2026, at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Vila Verde, Dili.
Their priestly ordination celebrated the culmination of more than a decade of Jesuit formation—a journey marked by challenges, sacrifices, moments of consolation, and profound experiences of God’s grace. Having faithfully discerned their vocation through years of study, pastoral ministry, and spiritual formation, they now embrace a new chapter of service as priests in the Society of Jesus.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, which coincided with the Feast of the Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Fr. Justino reflected on the significance of their chosen motto. He shared that, like earthen vessels, they aspire to remain humble instruments in God’s hands, recognizing that their vocation and ministry are gifts entrusted to them by God. As Jesuits, they hope to help bring people closer to Christ through their ministries.
Speaking during the celebration, Fr. Erik John J. Gerilla, SJ, the Regional Superior of the Jesuits in the Independent Region of Timor-Leste, highlighted the long journey that had brought the two new priests to this important milestone.
“After many years of formation and struggle, which were not always easy, you have reached this day. We thank God first of all for the gift of your vocation. We are also grateful for the support and accompaniment of your parents, families, formators, and all those who have walked with you. Their support has now borne fruit in two priests who are ready to begin their new mission.”
The joyful celebration gathered many faithful from across Timor-Leste. Family members travelled from Oe-Cusse, Ermera, Viqueque, and Dili to witness this significant occasion. Friends, religious brothers and sisters, members of various apostolates, and the wider Jesuit community joined together in prayer for the gift of these new priests.
Following their ordination, Fr. Justino and Fr. Marcos will begin their respective apostolic assignments within the region.
Fr. Justino Soares Boavida, SJ, has been assigned to the newly established Centro de Espiritualidade Inaciana para a Paz e Reconciliação (CEIPAR) in Hera. There, he will contribute to the promotion of Ignatian spirituality, peacebuilding, and reconciliation ministries, while also assisting in parish pastoral work.
Meanwhile, Fr. Marcos Apu Colo, SJ, has been assigned to Nossa Senhora de Fátima Secondary School in Railaco. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, he will support the school’s pastoral and apostolic activities, accompanying students and the wider community in their educational and spiritual growth.
As companion in Christ, Fr Luis Pereira, SJ offering his reflections and hopes for the newly ordained priests, encouraged them to remain deeply rooted in Christ.
“I hope they can both be rooted, anchored, and remain firm in Christ like a vine that clings to the Vine, inspired by Ignatian Spirituality and guided by the Holy Spirit. And I hope they can also be “men of prayer, discernment, compassion and the Magis” in their mission to bring believers to Christ and lead them to God. In order to keep close to the Society’s motto: AMDG”
As the Jesuit community gives thanks for the gift of these two new priests, we invite everyone to continue accompanying Fr. Justino and Fr. Marcos through prayer. May they grow each day as faithful shepherds after the heart of Christ, bringing people closer to God through their ministry, service, and apostolic mission.
Written by:
Iriana Soares, ETR Communications Officer