This past Saturday, October 14, at the Cathedral of St. Jude the Apostle, CCC Athletic Director John Gerdes was one of eight men ordained by Bishop Gregory Parkes as deacons for service.
"Ordinations to the diaconate or to priesthood are always special days here in our Diocese because we're adding ministers, we're adding clergy to the fold who can minister to God's people," said Bishop Gregory Parkes.
The process to become a deacon is a long and extensive process. It involves a period of discernment involving the entire family, as well as a five year formation period with intense study to get the men and their wives ready for this vocation. If a candidate for the diaconate is married, he must receive the consent of his wife before he is eligible for ordination.
What differentiates a deacon in the Catholic church from other ordained ministers, such as bishops and priests?
"They can't celebrate Mass or hear confessions, but they can perform baptisms, witness weddings, preach the Gospel, as well as give a homily and assist at Mass. They do complement the priesthood. They are co-workers with the priest and the bishop in our Diocese, and they are really a very important ministry in our Diocese," continued Bishop Parkes.
In recognition of this honor and in preparation for this important ceremony, Clearwater Central Catholic High School staff and students presented Mr. Gerdes with an embossed bible after our all-school Mass on Monday, October 9.
John Gerdes will assist at Mass for the CCC community on November 1 at 9:40a.m. in the Performing Arts Center on campus. All are welcome to attend!
[Portions of this article, including quotes from Bishop Gregory Parkes, were obtained from the Gulf Coast Catholic News article about the ordination event. You can read the article in full HERE.]