YUCATAN, Mexico — St. Paul the Apostle parishioners Norma and Dan Hinderliter, Caydee Savinelli and Sue Watson attended the Feb. 2 priestly ordination of Erik Jorge, who has been associated with St. Paul’s Sister Parish Ministry in Manta, Ecuador.
Father Jorge ordained in Mérida, Mexico, the capital of his home state of Yucatan.
Two days later, he celebrated his first Mass in his Mayan village of Cosgaya. Both ordination and Mass were followed by bountiful servings of local food and colorful folk dances. The events were attended by many from the surrounding villages in addition to Father Jorge’s parents (pictured with Father Jorge and the St. Paul parishioners).
The St. Paul parishioners said the four-day trip was “an international spiritual and joyful experience,” and they are grateful to Father Bill Auth of the Oblates of St. Francis DeSales, missionary to the people of Cosgaya and who has known Father Jorge since his boyhood, for acting as their host.
Father Jorge will begin his priesthood at Niño Jesús Parish in Manta, where he served during his formation.
— Sue Watson