This will be the first "class" of "permanent" deacons the Diocese has ordained and I am greatly looking forward to their ministry. I am happy to say that Deacon Joe Emmerich, from the parish at which I am assigned, has been assigned to assist the Pastor of the same parish.
The ordination Liturgy - which promises to be standing room only - will begin at 2:00 in the afternoon in Springfield in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Yours truly will be serving as the Assistant Master of Ceremonies and at this moment I am thinking: logistical nightmare. Nonetheless, it will be a joyous and glorious day!
The Catholic Times has coverage of the upcoming ordination in several places:
- Bishop Lucas' Weekly column - Offers a summary of the diaconate
- "Eighteen to be ordained as deacons for diocese" - Offers a brief biographical sketch of each of the ordinandi
- Catholic Times Opinion - Offers a nice little hodge-podge
Please join me in thanking God for the gift of these deacons, asking that their ministry will bear much fruit!