Nine men in formation to be permanent deacons for the Diocese of Grand Rapids were instituted in the ministry of acolyte by Bishop David Walkowiak on Jan. 31, 2022 at 7 p.m. at the Cathedral of Saint Andrew. The public was invited to attend.
The ministry of acolyte is the final step before ordination to Holy Orders in January 2024. Their ministry as acolytes includes assisting the priest and deacon at the altar during Mass. They also will serve during liturgies, distribute holy Communion and purify sacred vessels.
The nine men are: Gregory Beasley, David Bevins, James Cross, Matthew Dugener, Fernando Gutierrez, Randy Hodge, Ottoniel Orozco, Michael Schasser, and Wade Yott.
Note: Lawrence Duthler, also a member of the Parmenas Class of deacon candidates, was instituted in the ministry of acolyte by Bishop Walkowiak on Oct. 31, 2022 at the Basilica of St. Adalbert.
This group of men were admitted to candidacy for the diaconate, the first formal step toward becoming permanent deacons, on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2020. They received the rite of lector in April 2021.
Known as the Parmenas class (Parmenus was one of the first seven deacons in Scripture, see Acts 6:2-5), this is the second group of men in formation for the diaconate for the diocese since the deacon formation program was reinstated by Bishop Walkowiak. The first group of men from the Timon class were ordained permanent deacons on Jan. 8.
Deacons are one of three major orders of the sacrament of holy orders, the others are priests and bishops. Deacons may officiate at baptisms, weddings and funerals, read the Gospel and preach at Mass, and help with the canonical process for marriage and baptism, but one of their greatest priorities is service to the poor and marginalized. The wives of the deacon candidates are an integral part of the diaconate program. They support their husbands through prayer, sacrifice, and by assuming added duties of home and family.
Click here to learn more about the permanent diaconate program in our diocese.
Attend the next “Exploring the Diaconate” gathering
Join Deacon Jerry Roersma, director of diaconate formation, for fellowship, prayer and inquiry.
Date: Tuesday, March 15, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: In the chapel at Holy Trinity Catholic Church (1200 Alpine Church Rd. NW, Comstock Park)
For more information, email jroersma@grdiocese.org, or call Pattie Reynolds in the diaconate formation office, 616-288-0910.
