Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Lima (Agenzia Fides) - The community of La Union, in Lower Piura (outskirts of the capital city Piura, 20 km from the city center), warmly welcomed Father Tomy Mathew Moozhayil, C.M.I and Father Joseph Anthony Palackal, C.M.I, both from India, who took possession of the parish of San Silvestro, respectively as parish priest and administrator. The Mass was presided by Mgr. Jose Antonio Eguren Anselmi, Archbishop of Piura, and after having read the decree of appointment of the parish priest, presented Father Tomy Mathew to the community and handed over the keys of the church, the baptistery, the confessional, the book of the Word of God and the sacred objects to celebrate the Eucharist as a symbol of his ministry in this parish. The faithful present frequently applauded, expressed joy and gratitude for the arrival of the new parish priest. During the ceremony, which took place on July 10, Mgr. Eguren assured the community that "the new pastor will be at their complete service, but Father Tomy, must have everyone's cooperation, so that this community becomes rich soil and can give much fruit". After the Eucharist, Father Tomy Mathew Moozhayil and Father Joseph Anthony Palackal were able to appreciate the manifestations of affection and welcome the people of La Union expressed since their arrival. Both priests from India, had already exercised their priestly ministry in the city of Arequipa, Camana and Chosica. They belong to the community of Carmelites of Mary Immaculate, which with 14 priests of the Indian state of Kerala, are carrying out a major social work in Peru. The Carmelites of Mary Immaculate are the first and largest male religious order of the Catholic Church in India. (EC) (Agenzia Fides 07/19/2011)
