DIACONATE FORMATION PROGRAM
ORDINATION AND CELEBRATION
Steps Along the Way:
Upon entering the Diaconate Formation Program, men are considered Aspirants for the first year.At the completion of 2 years, applicants become Candidates for ordination.
In October of 2011, we welcomed 5 new candidates from the class of 2013. Pictured above: From left to right, Daniel Romanello, David Culliton, Bishop Timothy McDonnell, Spencer Trova, George Galli,
and Keith Davies
At the completion of 3 years, Candidates are advanced to Reader and Acolyte.
At the end of 4 years, men are Ordained Permanent Deacons.
Class of 2011On May 21, 2011, Bishop McDonnell ordained 11 new deacons. From left to right, front row: Paul F. DeCarlo, Richard J. Radzick, James B. McElroy, Bishop Timothy A. McDonnell, Robert J. Digan, & John E. Zick. Back row (from left to right): Kevin M. McCarthy, Thomas M. Rickson, Odell L. Daniel, Robert F. Farrell, Khanh N. Tran, & George D. Nolan.
Bishop Timothy McDonnell recommends that deacons serve in a second capacity within the Diocese if at all possible. For example, a deacon may be assigned to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Parish as well as assisting in the Tribunal Office of the Diocese.
At our Annual Appreciation Dinner in November of 2011, Bishop McDonnell recognized several of our hardworking deacons in the Diocese of Springfield for their many years of service. They are as follows:
5th Year of Service
Deacon Richard Magenis
10th Year of Service
Deacon John Antaya, Deacon Leo Bergeron
Deacon Leo Coughlin, Deacon Sean Mulholland
Deacon Thomas Rabbitt, Deacon Francis Ryan
Deacon Richard Talbot, Deacon William Toller
20th Year of Service
Deacon John Bledsoe, Deacon Joseph Garde
Deacon George Kozach, Deacon Leon Mireault
Deacon Bernard Pellissier Deacon Lincoln Rael
Deacon Francis Rogers
In addition, Deacon Leo Bergeron was honored with a plaque to commemorate his years as a diocesan deacon. Deacon Bergeron officially retired in June of 2011. Enjoy your retirement Deacon Leo and Jackie!
