While priestly ordinations are usually held at the Cathedral of St. Andrew in Little Rock, the Diocese of Little Rock hosts diaconate ordinations in the seminarians’ hometowns. On May 21 and 28 and June 11, Bishop Anthony B. Taylor ordained three men into the transitional diaconate. Reflecting the diversity of the Church today, the men were all born outside of the United States but moved to Arkansas when they were younger and decided to become diocesan priests.
During the diaconate ordination, they made three promises: celibacy, prayer and obedience. Deacons who are preparing to be priests must live a celibate life. They must also promise to pray the Liturgy of the Hours each day and be obedient to the bishop and his successors.
The men, who attend St. Meinrad Seminary in Indiana, will be ordained to the priesthood together in May 2012.
Juan Manjarrez will be first priest from IC in 78 years
Deacon Alejandro Puello found his faith in Arkansas
Carrasco ordination unifies Anglo, Hispanic members
Click here to see the index of stories in Arkansas Catholic’s Vocations 2011 special section.