The newest priests of the Diocese of Parramatta were supported at their ordination and throughout their formation journey by loving family members.
Catholic Outlook had the opportunity to speak to some of them on the night about each of the ordinands and what special gifts they felt each would bring to the priesthood.
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It was clear that each ordinand’s family had followed and supported their progress to this point, and the pride and joy were obvious in how they described the men.
Fr Adam’s aunt and godmother Margaret said, “when he told me he was considering the priesthood, I asked him, ‘are you happy?’ and he said ‘yes’. He said, ‘my love is God and that’s where I want to be’, so I was happy that he was happy.
Fr Adam Carlow’s aunt and godmother Margaret. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
“I think he will be an amazing priest. He will be fantastic with the young kids – they’re going to love him. He’s going to show them the way to God.”
Fr Jack’s sister Jackie believes that her brother’s life experiences will help bring people back to God.
“Him coming back to the faith, coming back to Jesus and Mary and finding his way after all these years, you couldn’t be prouder, it’s a massive accomplishment,” Jackie said.
Fr Jack Elkazzi’s sister Jackie and brother John. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
“He genuinely cares about people, he’s got this love inside him and though he might come across as tough, he’s a softie at heart. He’ll be there for you, no matter what.
“I believe that the youth of today are experiencing a lot of what Jack’s journey entails, so for him to have that personal experience, is going to be able to reach them and know exactly what they are feeling and what they need to hear.”
For Fr Matthew’s sister Mary, their sibling bond has strengthened throughout his formation, with her baby brother teaching her so much more about the faith.
“When he developed a real interest in the faith, he had a lot to offer me more that I think I could offer him. Matthew getting into philosophy and theology allowed us as a family to deepen our faith.
Fr Matthew Dimian’s sister Mary. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
“Matthew has a way of really listening to people and trying to grasp where the person is at, and I think that will carry through into his priesthood. He sees the individual in the place where they are, and I think that is essential to bringing Christ to a person.
“He has a deep desire to serve Christ, so I hope that comes through his ministry.”
We pray for these young men that God protects them with His grace that they may faithfully discharge the duties of the priesthood.
Fr Adam Carlow will serve the faith community of St Madeleine Sophie Barat Parish, Kenthurst.
Fr Matthew Dimian will serve the faith community of St Bernadette’s Parish, Castle Hill.
Fr Jack Elkazzi will serve the faith community of Our Lady, Queen of Peace Parish, Greystanes.
You can rewatch the ordination to the presbyterate of Adam Carlow, Matthew Dimian and Jack Elkazzi on the Diocese of Parramatta’s YouTube channel, and you can view images from the ordination here.
