On the Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist (24 June 2007), His Excellency, the Most Reverend George J. Lucas will ordain eighteen (18) men to the Order of Deacons for service to the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois.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!
Another chance to whip out the cassock and surplice, Father? =)
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