Previous Story
James Balajadia to be ordained a priest on Dec. 13
As the Catholic community counts down to Deacon James Balajadia’s ordination, the Saipan native says it is a “dream come true for him to become a priest for the people of the CNMI.”
From left, James’ father Victor Balajadia, Deacon James Balajadia, his grandmother Virginia Balajadia, and mother Elizabeth Balajadia after his diaconate ordination in October at the Mount Carmel Cathedral. (THOMAS A. MANGLONA)
Balajadia, a 2007 alumnus of Mount Carmel School, was welcomed to the Holy Order as a transitional deacon in October. This Saturday, Dec. 13, 2014, Balajadia will be ordained a priest at Mount Carmel Cathedral at 10am.
Balajadia told Saipan Tribune he is elated to have the opportunity to serve the people who invited him to consider the priesthood as God’s call in his life.
“I’m especially excited because I will be a priest for our people here in this Diocese of Chalan Kanoa,” he said. “My family, friends, and the community have been nothing but supportive throughout my whole preparation for the day of my ordination as a priest. Their constant encouragement means so much to me.”
Balajadia’s seven-year journey in the seminary leading to his ordination was not without obstacles to overcome.
“Throughout my years in the seminary there were times when I wanted to just give up, quit, or take a very long break from it all.”
But, he said, there was also a lot joy.
“The joys of learning more about the faith, meeting people from all parts of the world, and just experiencing God’s providence and love in life. I’ve also had a lot of fun while on this road, making friends from all over. And if I had to do it all over again, I really would,” he said.
“Of course, I was never alone in this journey…God gave me so many people to accompany me through this whole adventure,” he added.
He hopes his story serves as an inspiration for youth to be faithful to the Gospel and practice their faith.
“When you give yourself completely to God, the Lord will raise you and lead you to places you never even dreamed of,” he said.
As a soon-to-be priest in the Diocese of Chalan Kanoa, Balajadia said it will be his primary goal to guide, teach, and encourage people to live out the Gospel.
“I will have to show them, by word and example, the way to Jesus, who is the way, the truth, and life.”
