The press release:
Fifteen men were ordained as deacons for service in the Diocese of Metuchen on Saturday, May 20. Two of the men are preparing for eventual service in the priesthood. The Ordination took place beginning at 10 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, 32 Elm Avenue. The Most Rev. James F. Checchio, Bishop of Metuchen, was the celebrant.
The 15 newly ordained deacons originally hail from India, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey.
Ordained deacons assist the bishop and his priests in the ministry of the word, of the altar and of charity. As ministers of the altar, deacons proclaim the gospel, prepare the altar and distribute the Lord’s body and blood to the faithful. Deacons preside over public prayer, administer baptism, assist at and bless marriages, bring viaticum to the dying and conduct funeral rites.
Read on to learn more about the men ordained. Congratulations, brothers, and welcome! Ad multos annos!
And might I just add: kudos to the Metuchen communications team for posting these images and a release on the newly ordained just hours after the event!
Photo: Erin Friedlander / Diocese of Metuchen
