On Saturday, February 13, 2021, in Xochistlahuaca, Guerrero, Mexico, deacon Elmer Pelaez Epitacio was the first Mexican Consolata missionary to be ordained a priest. He received the sacrament of the Holy Orders in his home parish, St. Michael the Archangel, from the hands of Msgr. Leopoldo Gonzalez Gonzalez, archbishop of Acapulco.
Father Elmer was surrounded by family, friends and acquaintances (in a limited number in presence; and many others, remotely). It was the first time such a ceremony was held in his parish church. The Bishop gave a wonderful homily that can be read here.
“I have not come to be served, but to serve” (Mk 10:45) is the theme chosen by Father Elmer to mark his priestly ministry.
The following day, Sunday, February 14, because of the pandemic restrictions, he had to celebrate his first Mass only with his relatives and the few Consolata priests who could join him for the event.
The Consolata Missionaries thanked the parents of the new priest for their generous gift to the Church of their first born. They added a warm thank you to Archbishop Leopoldo Gonzalez Gonzalez, for ordaining one of his own, a missionary priest.
The Superior of the Consolata Missionaries in North America expressed his gratitude to the Consolata Missionaries in Mexico with the following words: “Elmer is the first fruit of your presence in this beloved country. We are confident that he will be followed by others. We are very grateful to you! Mexican priests and religious brothers will endow our family, and the mission, with the deep faith and rich culture that characterize their people.” Addressing Elmer, he concluded: “We join you in thanking the Lord and all those who helped you become a priest. Give us your blessing on this most important and beautiful day of your life, and… remember us all in your prayer! »