On the 19 of March 2024, the feast of St Joseph, Brother John De Agnel Anthoni Samy O.Praem was ordained to the diaconate in a ceremony filled with the rich traditions of the Norbertine Order.
The St Norbert College community, alongside many priests and religious figures, gathered to witness this significant moment, celebrated by Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB.
Brother John’s journey to this milestone has been shaped by a deep sense of calling and a series of life-altering experiences.
From his early days in Parit Buntar, Malaysia, to his theological studies at Notre Dame University, his story is one of faith, resilience, and dedication.
In this Q&A with The Record, Brother John shares his reflections on his journey, his experiences, and his hopes for the future.
Q: Can you tell us about your early life and what led you to join the Norbertines Order?
Brother John: I was born and raised in Parit Buntar, a small town in northern Malaysia. I am the youngest of eight children, and my family has always been deeply rooted in the Catholic faith. My father was a catechist and the principal of a Tamil primary school next to our parish church, so the Church was a central part of my upbringing. I joined the altar servers’ ministry at a young age, which sparked my initial interest in the priesthood.
However, it wasn’t until I experienced a series of life-threatening accidents, particularly the seventh one, where I almost died, that I truly felt God’s calling. This was a turning point that led me to discern my vocation more seriously, eventually guiding me to the Norbertines Order.
Q: What was it about the Norbertine Order that resonated with you?
Brother John: The Norbertines Order felt like a special calling from God, a gift that I was meant to receive. The community life, grounded in the Rule of St. Augustine, with its focus on unity and living with “one mind and heart on the way to God,” deeply resonated with me. The Order’s commitment to stability, alongside vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, offered a path that aligned with my desire to serve God and His people in a structured, supportive environment.
Q: How has your journey been since joining the Norbertines in June 2016?
Brother John: It has been a deeply enriching experience. I made my Simple Profession to the community in May 2018, alongside Brother Kenneth. Since then, I’ve been deeply involved in the life of our community at St Joseph’s Priory Church in Queens Park.
Our parish is wonderfully diverse, with people from all over the world — Australians, and people of Anglo-Celtic, Malaysian, Singaporean, Burmese, Vietnamese, Indian, Filipino, and Italian background.
This diversity has allowed me to learn from different cultures and traditions, enriching my ministry and my own spiritual life.
Q: What are some of the highlights of your parish placement?
Brother John: As a deacon, I’ve had the privilege of proclaiming the Gospel during Mass, ministering baptisms, and blessing homes. These acts have allowed me to be intimately involved in the spiritual lives of our parishioners. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my ministry is simply being present for people—listening to them, offering support, and walking with them in their faith journeys. This “Ministry of Presence” has been incredibly rewarding.
Q: Can you share more about your calling and decision to pursue the priesthood?
Brother John: My calling began in primary school when I was an altar server. However, as I grew older and pursued studies in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, my focus shifted to my career. It wasn’t until after my eighth road accident that I truly discerned my calling.
I sought counsel from priests, imams, Hindu priests, and Buddhist monks—all of whom echoed the same sentiment: if God saved me from so many accidents, He must have a plan for me. This realisation strengthened my resolve, and after much prayer and reflection, I decided to pursue the priesthood, eventually joining the Norbertines.
Q: How has your formation and studies been at Notre Dame University?
Brother John: My time at Notre Dame has been invaluable. Theological studies have deepened my understanding of the faith, while my formation within the Norbertine community has provided a strong spiritual foundation.
I also have a spiritual director who guides me through my journey, helping me navigate the challenges and joys of religious life. Living in a community with brothers from different cultures and backgrounds has been a unique and enriching experience, one that has prepared me well for my future ministry.
Q: What are you most looking forward to as you prepare for the priesthood?
Brother John: I’m looking forward to the day when I can fully serve the people of God as a priest. With our parish, college, and community all intertwined, I anticipate taking on more responsibilities in the future.
One specific area I feel called to is retreat ministry. I believe that retreats offer a vital opportunity for people to reconnect with God, and I hope to guide others in strengthening their spiritual lives through these experiences.
Q: Who has been instrumental in your journey so far?
Brother John: I am deeply grateful to my Spiritual Director, Fr Nino Vinciguerra, our Prior, Fr Peter Joseph, my fellow brothers, family members, parishioners, friends, and all those who have supported me along the way. Their prayers, guidance, and encouragement have been crucial in helping me reach this point.
Q: Any final thoughts or messages for the people of Perth?
Brother John: As we read in Luke 10:2, “The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few.” This is a reality we face today. I ask for your prayers, that more people may respond to God’s call to serve. I believe and pray that God will use me as His instrument in His vineyard, to guide and journey with His people here in Perth.