On Saturday, June 6, 2026, the diaconal and priestly ordinations of two Conventual Franciscan friars took place at the Church of the Holy Trinity in Gdańsk, Poland.
The Most Reverend Piotr PRZYBOREK, Auxiliary Bishop of Gdańsk, presided over the solemn Mass. Friar Gabriel Kyalo MUNYAO, of the Province of St. Francis of Assisi in Kenya, was ordained to the diaconate, while Friar Grzegorz ZABŁOTNY, of the Province of St. Maximilian M. Kolbe in Poland (Gdańsk), was ordained to the priesthood. In his homily, Bishop PRZYBOREK mentioned the 800th anniversary of the transitus of St. Francis of Assisi. He recalled that the essence of the Franciscan and priestly vocation lies in becoming ever more conformed to Christ, even through the experience of the cross and suffering. Quoting St. Paul: “It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me,” Bishop PRZYBOREK stressed that ordination calls a man to dedicate his entire life to God.
Speaking to Friar Gabriel, Bishop PRZYBOREK pointed to Saints Stephen and Philip as models of zealous proclamation of the Word of God, obedience to the Holy Spirit, and willingness to serve without expecting immediate results. Speaking to Friar Gabriel, he talked about the priesthood as a lifelong journey of following Christ, of remaining in Him, and faithfully celebrating the Mass and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. He also encouraged him to practice daily adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and to entrust his ministry to the Mother of God.
We wish the newly ordained deacon, Friar Gabriel, and the newly ordained priest, Friar Grzegorz, an abundance of graces from the Holy Spirit, fidelity to the Franciscan charism, and the unceasing joy that flows from a life dedicated to God and to humanity.
Maja STUDZIŃSKA
