Photo: by Jeff Witherow/Catholic Courier
From the Catholic Courier:
For one day, the spotlight shone on two men as they embarked upon a way of life defined by humble service.
Deacons Michael Schoene and Matthew Hall were ordained May 30 by Bishop John S. Bonnici as permanent deacons for the Diocese of Rochester. The ordination Mass took place at Sacred Heart Cathedral.
“The ministry of a deacon is never about self-promotion or prestige,” Bishop Bonnici noted during his homily. “You are not not ordained for yourselves. You are ordained for Christ and for his people.”
Following the Mass, the diocese’s newest deacons expressed eagerness to give accordingly of themselves after several years of preparation.
“I feel absolutely ecstatic,” Deacon Schoene exclaimed, adding, “I am ready to go and serve.”
“Really, I’m just very much at peace,” Deacon Hall said. “The Lord has been so good.”
Congratulations, brothers, and welcome! Ad multos annos!
