Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

On May 25, 2024, Bishop John Noonan addressed Father Michael Batista and Father Phillip Mills during their ordination ceremony at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe in Orlando. In his homily, Bishop Noonan emphasized prayer and hope as central themes for their priestly journey.

“Michael and Phillip, Jesus will ask you many times in your priestly life, ‘Do you love me?’ Remember Jesus needs your ‘Yes.’ Only then can Jesus invite you, as he invited Peter, to follow Him,” said Bishop Noonan. He added that their commitment marked the beginning of a deep relationship with Jesus Christ. Quoting Pope Francis, he noted that “closeness to God is where a priest draws ‘all the strength needed for his ministry.’”

Bishop Noonan highlighted the importance of a consistent prayer life for priests. He referenced Pope Francis' teachings on how intimacy with God through prayer is essential for effective ministry: “Without these concrete ‘forms of closeness,’ a priest is merely a weary hireling who has none of the benefits of the Lord’s friends.”

He further reminded Fathers Batista and Mills that their spiritual lives would enable them to be symbols of hope. Referring to Pope Francis’ announcement of 2025 as a Jubilee Year calling all Christians to be Pilgrims of Hope, he cited Romans 5:5: “Hope does not disappoint.”

The ordination also held personal significance for the families involved. Lucy and Richard Mills expressed joy over their son’s path. “We’re thrilled because we think it will help to have two young priests bring people to church,” Lucy said. Richard added that both men entering seminary after high school brought great hope.

Lucy recalled an early sign of her son's vocation when he received his First Holy Communion at age six and declared "Body of Christ" during Mass. This moment earned him the nickname "Father Phillip" from then-pastor Father Stephen Phillips.

Father Mills’ twin brother Matthew reflected on his brother's journey: “When he first started, I didn’t understand some things he talked about... But as he started getting more involved and helping people in ways I never could... I’m so proud of him.”

Similarly, Inez and Pedro Batista initially envisioned a different future for their son but came to support his decision over time. “It’s been a beautiful nine years,” Inez said.

Both newly ordained priests shared feelings of joy and readiness following their ordination. “I’m so ready to go out there, preach the Gospel, and serve the people of God,” Father Batista stated.

“This is more the Lord making a promise to us and His Church than us being able to do anything,” remarked Father Mills.

Their assignments begin on June 1; Father Phillip Mills will serve St. James Cathedral Parish in Orlando while Father Michael Batista will serve St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in St. Cloud.

By Glenda Meekins

Florida Catholic Staff

May 30, 2024