June 21 was a special day for the Brothers of Saint John in Vilnius. On that day, through the laying on of hands by Archbishop Gintaras Grušas, Brother Elijas Butkus was ordained to the priesthood.

In the presence of a large group of relatives and around 300 friends, community members, and guests, Brother Elijas received the gift of priesthood, choosing — in the words of the Archbishop — to witness to Christ’s love with his whole life in service to the Church. The festive agape was filled with delicious food and joyful fellowship, while the newly ordained priest likely didn’t taste anything himself, as he spent nearly three hours without pause receiving congratulations and generously giving blessings.