(PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – May 31, 2025) – The Salesian Delegation of Cambodia (THA Province), celebrating 34 years of presence in the mission, rejoiced with the Catholic Church in Cambodia as His Excellency Bishop Olivier Schmitthaeusler ordained Rev. John Bosco Kong Somony to the priesthood at the Sts. Peter and Paul Pastoral Center in Phnom Penh.
The solemn celebration began at 9:00 AM, attended by the two Prefects—Msgr. Enrique Figueredo, SJ of Battambang Prefecture and Msgr. Suon Hongly of Kampong Cham Prefecture—alongside 90 clergy members from across Cambodia. Also present were representatives of the seven groups of the Salesian Family, Fr. Somony’s siblings, staff and students from various Salesian institutions, and the lay faithful from Catholic Pastoral Centers.
During the ceremony, Bishop Schmitthaeusler reflected on Don Bosco’s childhood dream and encouraged Rev. Somony to always trust in God’s compassion. He urged him to follow Don Bosco’s example by seeking the guidance of the Blessed Virgin Mary and serving the young and the community with love, joy, and hope as he proclaims God’s word.
Fr. Eugene Xalxo, Superior of the Cambodia Salesian Delegation, expressed his deep gratitude:
“With great respect, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Bishop Olivier Schmitthaeusler for his leadership and dedication in this sacred ordination of Father John Bosco Kong Somony. We also sincerely thank Bishop Kike, Bishop Suong Hongly, Fr. Favie from the Philippines, Fr. Theparat from Thailand, and all clergy, religious members, and representatives of various Catholic organizations.
On this special occasion, we recognize the profound faith and service of Father John Bosco Somony, who follows in the footsteps of St. Don Bosco to guide and serve with love, joy, and compassion. We honor his family, friends, and all who have supported his vocation.
To the priests, brothers, sisters, seminarians, lay groups, and the Salesian community members (SDB, FMA, SIHM, ASC, Past Pupils, ADMA & VDB), your dedication in preparing this celebration has made it truly meaningful. May this day mark the beginning of a blessed and fruitful mission for Father John Bosco Kong Somony.”
Before the conclusion of the Eucharistic celebration, Fr. John Bosco Kong Somony expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Salesian congregation and his family, especially his late parents, for their unwavering love and support of his vocation to the Salesian religious life and priesthood.
Following the Holy Mass, attendees participated in the traditional kissing of hands and received priestly blessings from the newly ordained. A joyful gathering then ensued, with a grand meal shared among the 1,200 attendees in celebration of this significant milestone in Cambodia’s Catholic community. Live of the Ordination by Don Bosco Cambodia Social Communication Services (DBCSCS) and Cambodia Catholic Social Communication (CSC):
Don Bosco Cambodia - DBFC 