“In these days both in our nation and in our commonwealth, you need to bow in service to the unborn, the elderly and the most vulnerable. Bow in service to the Gospel of life.”
Bishop Michael F. Burbidge ordained six men to the permanent diaconate at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More in Arlington Feb. 20. Newly ordained Deacon Edward O. Devlin was assigned to St. Ambrose Church in Annandale, Deacon Mark R. Jerge to St. John the Baptist Church in Front Royal, Deacon Matthew K. Noah to St. Theresa Church in Ashburn, Deacon Richard C. Vossler to Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Winchester, Deacon Michael J. Watts to Precious Blood Church in Culpeper and Deacon Aaron L. Zaccagnino to St. Jude Church in Fredericksburg.
The families of the newly ordained deacons as well as priests and fellow deacons were present to witness the ordination at the cathedral. Hundreds of others watched via livestream.
In his homily, Bishop Burbidge urged the six men to remain humble in carrying out their ministry. “In addition to your preaching and teaching, please never forget that charity is at the heart of the ministry of the deacon, in imitation of Christ who bowed to wash the feet of his disciples, who came not to be served but to serve,” he said. “In these days both in our nation and in our commonwealth, you need to bow in service to the unborn, the elderly and the most vulnerable. Bow in service to the Gospel of life.”
Congratulations, brothers, and welcome! Ad multos annos!
