Dear Friends,

As you all know, I was sent to Madrid where I had been assigned since September of last year. Not only has it been an opportunity for me to discover the magnificence of Spanish Catholicism – its venerable customs and its rich tradition – most importantly, my apostolate assignment provided insight into my life as a priest in the Institute of Christ the King.

Whether it has been at the seminary or at an apostolate, each year of priestly formation crystallizes my calling to the Holy Priesthood. My desire to serve the Church remains ardent and God continues to guide me toward this sacred vocation. As Divine Providence has determined now, my vocation leads me rather to the diocesan priesthood. Consequently, I will be finishing my studies as a seminarian for the Archdiocese of New York.

I assure all of you that this was not a hasty decision but rather one that was carefully made after much prayer and reflection. With the consultation of my superiors, I was encouraged to see whether the diocesan life was more suitable for me than life as a secular canon in the Institute. It was indeed a very difficult decision yet Our Lord only kept the door open, waiting for me to respond.

Even if Our Blessed Lord calls me to serve as a diocesan priest, my formation in the Institute was nevertheless according to His divine will. It was neither a mistake nor time wasted because God willed it. Whether as a member of a religious community or of a diocese, I am satisfied wherever His divine will indicates me to serve Holy Mother Church.

May God bless you for your support for my vocation. With the assurance of my daily prayers and my devotion, I remain,

In Christ Crucified,

Abbé Edward Ablang