One Boat, One Mission

On December 13, 2024, the Catholic community of Port Pirie, South Australia, witnessed an extraordinary occasion: the ordination of Reverend Father Galileo C. Mascardo IV. The Diocese of Port Pirie and Archdiocese of Davao welcomed him into the presbyterate in a ceremony that overflowed with joy, hope, and inspiration.

Father Leo’s path to the priesthood included formative years at the Corpus Christi College Seminary, Melbourne, where he studied from 2019 to 2023. He was ordained Deacon on October 7, 2023, at St. Mark’s Cathedral, Port Pirie, South Australia.

The presbyteral ordination took place at San Pedro Cathedral and was presided over by Most Reverend Karol Kulczycki, SDS, DD, Bishop of Port Pirie. The church was filled with family, friends, clergy, and parishioners, all gathered to witness this sacred milestone. Some of his family, friends, and fellow clergy in Australia watched online through the special live coverage of DXGN 89.9 on their Facebook page.

Bishop Karol Kulczycki was joined by the concelebrating priests: Fr. Cameron Forbes, Rector of Corpus Christi College in Melbourne; Most Rev. Gregory O’Kelly, SJ, D.D., Bishop Emeritus of Port Pirie; Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D., Archbishop of Davao; Clergy from the Diocese of Port Pirie and Archdiocese of Davao were also present.

Deacon Jim Curtain, formator of Fr. Leo, shared his first encounter with him. He first met him during Father Leo’s pastoral work at The Royal Melbourne Hospital where he observed his gentle and compassionate care for patients. Deacon Jim described him as a wonderful, tender-hearted man and highlighted the courage it takes to serve in Port Pirie, especially as someone from a foreign land. “He has to hold on to that courage in both hands and trust that the people of Port Pirie will support and stand by him,” he said.

Father Leo’s ordination marks the beginning of a new chapter not just for him, but for all who call Port Pirie their spiritual home. Reflecting on his calling, Father Leo emphasized that his journey is now a shared one. “It is no longer my journey but our journey together in a single boat,” he said, echoing the wisdom of Saint Francis, “as we move together toward Christ.”

The future shines bright with promise as the Diocese of Port Pirie embarks on this journey with their dedicated and inspiring new priest. Father Leo’s humility, courage, and passion for ministry will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on his new spiritual home.

May God bless you, Father Leo.

(By Karen V. Sison)