The Archbishop of Medan warned newly ordained Capuchin priests against clericalism during an ordination Mass in Berastagi, North Sumatra, Indonesia, urging them to understand priesthood as service rather than status.
Archbishop Kornelius Sipayung ordained the priests during a solemn Eucharistic celebration at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Sempajaya, Berastagi Parish, a two-hour drive from the capital of North Sumatra, on Sunday, Jan. 24.
The ordination drew a large gathering of clergy, religious, lay faithful, and representatives of local government.
In his homily, Archbishop Kornelius cautioned against clericalism, which he described as a distorted understanding of ordination as a rise in rank or power.
“When ordination is seen as status, a priest may feel superior and resistant to correction. Ordination is not meant to exalt oneself, but to follow Christ who washed feet and gave His life,” he said.
He warned that clericalism often enters subtly through comfort, privileges, and everyday choices that distance priests from authentic service. He also cautioned against the temptation of power and popularity, particularly in the era of social media.
“Popularity becomes dangerous when it replaces Christ as the source of a priest’s identity,” he said.
The prelate emphasized that the faithful belong to God and must never become objects of control or manipulation.
“A true shepherd remains with the people because he loves them. This is the test of priesthood today: remaining faithful when ministry becomes heavy and the cross is truly felt,” he said.
The eight priests ordained to the Capuchin Order (OFMCap) are:
- Fr. Nofrendi Sihaloho OFMCap, from the Quasi-Parish of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Silalahi, previously assigned to St. Padre Pio Parish, Helvetia.
- Fr. Angelo Bonardo Purba OFMCap, from St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Saribudolog, previously serving at St. Michael Parish, Pangururan.
- Fr. Sofyan Sinurat OFMCap, from St. Fidelis Sigmaringen Parish, Parapat, assigned to Christus Sacerdos Minor Seminary, Pematangsiantar.
- Fr. Moel Sinaga OFMCap, from St. Fidelis Sigmaringen Parish, Parapat, assigned to the Franciscan Formation House (RPF), Nagahuta.
- Fr. Paulus Ta Trong Tri OFMCap, from Ngoc Ha Parish, Vietnam, previously serving in his home country.
- Fr. Stefan Sianturi OFMCap, from St. Joseph Parish, Jalan Kain Batik, Pematangsiantar, previously assigned to St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Tigabinanga.
- Fr. Firdaus Depari OFMCap, from St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Tigabinanga, previously serving at St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Saribudolog.
- Fr. Evander Purba OFMCap, from St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Saribudolog, assigned to St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Berastagi.
Ahead of the ordination, Capuchin Provincial Minister Fr. Josaphat Ivo Sinaga OFMCap issued a public announcement on Dec. 23, 2025, inviting anyone aware of canonical impediments or irregularities in the candidates’ religious life to report them to Capuchin superiors.
“Thus, we convey this announcement and humbly ask for your prayers and support. Thank you for your attention and cooperation,” Fr. Sinaga said.
The ordination Mass was attended by Karo District Regent Dr. dr. Antonius Ginting, along with representatives of the Indonesian National Police and Armed Forces.
“On behalf of the Karo District Government, I extend my congratulations on the ordination of the new Capuchin priests. May their ministry bring blessings to the wider community,” the regent said.
Archbishop Kornelius said the Church’s joy lies not simply in an increase in priestly numbers, but in the free and conscious self-offering of those ordained.
“Today the Church rejoices not because the number of priests increases, but because eight men stand here, offering their lives to serve,” he said.
He stressed that priestly ministry must flow from a deep interior spiritual life, citing St. Paul’s exhortation to the elders of Ephesus.
“The order is crucial: first take care of yourselves, then care for the flock. A shepherd who neglects his own life will, sooner or later, wound the flock,” he warned.
As a fellow Capuchin Franciscan, the archbishop underscored that priesthood is not a position of privilege but a vocation of humble service.
He said Capuchin priests are called to embody the spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi through simplicity of life, closeness to the people, and solidarity with the poor and marginalized.
“A Capuchin priest must live simply, walk with the people, and become a bearer of peace,” he said.
