Bishop of Urgell Ordains Deacons Salas and Bea to Priesthood in La Seu d'Urgell

The Cathedral of Santa Maria in La Seu d'Urgell will host the priestly ordination of deacons Edinson José Salas and Gilbert Bea from the Diocese of Urgell on Tuesday, July 7, at 6pm. Bishop Josep-Lluís Serrano Pentinat, who serves as Episcopal Co-Prince of Andorra, will preside over the rite on the solemnity of Saint Ot, imposing hands on the two men as they enter the priesthood.

Salas traces his vocation to childhood parish involvement, including time as a choirboy with Dominican sisters after his First Communion. That experience taught him that life centres on service and true happiness lies in giving to others. "God does not call superheroes, but people from everyday life," he reflected. He views the ordination as a "definitive yes" after years of seminary formation—not a title, but a daily call to model Christ the Good Shepherd in serving the diocese.

Bea began his path in the seminary in Manila, Philippines, never imagining a ministry in the Pyrenees. Responding to what he sees as God's invitation, he joined the Urgell diocese despite uncertainties, including a language barrier that initially left him feeling grounded like "an eagle that had lost the ability to fly." Over time, he adapted to the local culture and traditions, growing spiritually. He describes the moment as "extraordinary," filled with "profound gratitude" for God's confirmation of his calling, and stresses fidelity to divine will over personal or others' expectations.

Both express a mix of reverence, joy, humility, and responsibility. Salas feels "reverential fear before the mystery of God acting through my hands" alongside "deep joy" in fulfilling God's dream for his life. Bea approaches it with eagerness to accompany people in daily life, beyond sacraments and preaching.

This ceremony launches a significant month for the diocese, with four ordinations scheduled. On July 12, seminarian Carlos Rosas from Sant Esteve church in Andorra la Vella will become a deacon there. Mateo Arias follows on July 19 at Sant Miquèu in Vielha. These events will strengthen the diocese's presbytery and diaconate.