So… fun story. I was ordained a deacon on Saturday. I know, right? It surprised me too! Long story short, I was planning on being ordained in June, but when my provincial heard that another province of Franciscans was having an ordination in March, he said, “Why don’t you just tag along with them.” In truth, he said this to someone else who then forwarded it to me, so I doubt he used those exact words.
Regardless, I have had hands laid upon my head, I’ve made my formal promises, and I’m ready to go! So in honor of that great change in my life, I’ve decided to dedicate this week’s Catholicism in Focus to the sacrament I just received: the Sacrament of Orders.
Breaking In The Habit 
Congratulations and blessings on your ordination to the diaconate!
Welcome to the Diaconate, May God bring to completion the good work He has begun in you.
Way to go!
Ad multos annos! May God bless and prosper your work! However, be mindful when you say cardinals are bishops, to bear in mind that some cardinals, even in recent decades, have opted not receive episcopal ordination.
Congratulations, and welcome to the Brotherhood of Deacons! Blessings!
Br. Casey… er, Deacon Casey!
Thanks be to God, and congratulations to you!
May God continue to bless you and your ministry abundantly, Brother!
Peace,
Liam
It seems like just yesterday that I started following you early in your journey. Was that before you joined the Franciscans? Congratulations and best wishes.