Historic Maronite Ordination Marks First Priestly Ordination in Queensland

Fr Michael Khoury, 63, was ordained as the first Maronite priest in Queensland on May 9, marking a historic moment for the Maronite Catholic community in Brisbane. The ceremony took place at St Maroun’s Maronite Church in Greenslopes, where he was consecrated by Bishop Antoine-Charbel Tarabay. Fr Khoury, who has long been involved in the Church, expressed deep gratitude for the support of his family, including his wife Gabriella, five children, and two grandchildren, who were present at the event.

Fr Khoury described the ordination as a profound moment of spiritual connection, reflecting the tradition of Christ passing on authority to His disciples. He recounted feeling the presence of Christ during the ordination process, from the order of deacons to the order of priests. “It was awesome,” he said, emphasizing the emotional weight of the moment.

In his homily, Bishop Tarabay encouraged Fr Khoury to embrace both the joys and challenges of priesthood. He spoke of the “beautiful moments” such as baptizing children, preaching hope to the broken-hearted, and holding the Body and Blood of Christ. However, he also warned of the “moments of sacrifice and hidden suffering,” urging Fr Khoury to remain faithful to Christ’s call. “Hear again the voice of Christ asking: ‘Do you love me?’” Bishop Tarabay said, emphasizing the importance of enduring love and commitment.

Fr Fadi Salame, the parish priest of Brisbane’s Maronite community, expressed joy at the ordination, stating he stood with the community to “pray, witness and sponsor” Fr Khoury’s vocation. He praised the gift of Michael’s priesthood and prayed for it to be filled with faith, humility, wisdom, and love for God’s people.

Fr Khoury’s journey to priesthood began before he completed his education. He had a deep devotion to the Church, participating in choirs, catechism classes, youth groups, and other community activities. He prayed about his vocation and consulted a priest in his youth, who advised him to finish his education and return if he still felt called. After completing his schooling and two years of mandatory military training, he pursued a career as an electrician.

Despite his professional path, Fr Khoury remained connected to the Church, continuing to serve through music, teaching, and community engagement. His decision to marry was also guided by prayer and a sense of divine calling. “God led me towards marriage,” he said, reflecting on how his life has always been shaped by a desire to serve the Lord and His people.

Source: Read the original report