Six men, including Richard G. Adams, Thomas F. Maedke and Stephen F. Miletic of Steubenville, along with Mark A. Erste Sr. of Bloomingdale, recently were ordained permanent deacons for the Catholic Diocese of Steubenville. Daniel P. Murray of Athens and Lee V. Weisend of Marietta also were ordained permanent deacons. Bishop Jeffrey M. Monforton ordained the men during a Mass at Holy Name Cathedral. “It will be their duty, at the bishop’s direction, to exhort believers and unbelievers alike and to instruct them in holy doctrine. They will preside over public prayer, administer baptism, assist at and bless marriages, bring viaticum to the dying and conduct funeral rites,” said Monforton. “As deacons, that is, as ministers of Jesus Christ, who came among his disciples as one who served, do the will of God from the heart: serve the people in love and joy as you would the Lord. Since no one can serve two masters, look upon all defilement and avarice as serving false gods,” continued the bishop. The diaconate program was begun by former Bishop R. Daniel Conlon, when he was the fourth bishop of the Diocese of Steubenville. He is serving as the bishop of Joliet, Ill. The Diocese of Steubenville linked with the Diocese of Columbus, Ohio, for the academic portion of the program, which began in January 2010. The men studied at the Pontifical College Josephinum, Columbus. In addition, they have participated in retreats and formation sessions, as well as pastoral activities in their parishes.
Congratulations and welcome, brothers! Ad multos annos!
And today we celebrate...