TWO young men from Ghana joined the ranks of the Presentation Brothers during an ordination ceremony in Co Kerry yesterday.Augustine Dassah (29) and Callistus Nero (28), both from the west African nation, were ordained as Presentation Brothers in the presence of a large congregation during Mass at the Franciscan Friary in Killarney, Co Kerry.
The two men have been studying at the Presentation Brothers Novitiate there since April, completing the final stage of their three-year training programme.
They completed the first two and a half years in Ghana before coming to Ireland to finish their studies.
Both men have already completed third-level studies with Brother Callistus holding a degree in science and Brother Augustine qualified in advanced welding and fabrication.
"This is a special day in my life," said Br Augustine speaking after the Mass.
"I know that religious life will be challenging but today I am very happy. This is my vocation. It makes it even more special that we are making this commitment on the 175th anniversary of the arrival of the Presentation Brothers in Kerry."
Br Callistus paid tribute to the people of Killarney: "They have been very friendly to us and I'm grateful to them. Thanks be to God and all the people who have supported, prayed and encouraged us on this journey -- it has been a great adventure and experience of God."