Deacon Ordination, May 17, 2015
John 16:29-33
“I have told you this so that you might have peace in me.
In the world you will have trouble,
but take courage, I have conquered the world.”
Today’s Gospel offers all of us words of hope and comfort. Jesus is sharing His final words with His disciples, His friends. He knows what is to come. In a matter of hours, He faces suffering and death. And yet His focus is completely on the Apostles! And He reminds them that, even when they are scattered, they are not alone; they never will be! He will continue to guide them, encourage them and inspire them! Whatever hardships they will face, they will find peace in Jesus!
6 years ago today, I was ordained a permanent deacon! 6 years ago today I put on this stole (the one in the pictures) for the very first time! It was a gift from my wife Ginger. But it is also a reminder to me that, throughout the 4 years of formation, of classes and exams and oral presentations and practicums, I did not reach ordination all by myself. And these past 5 years of serving as a Deacon were also not spent alone!
All of you, my family, Ginger, Jaime, Josh, Tyler and Nate, Ginger’s mom and dad, my parents, sisters and brother, my St. Kateri family and my St. Robert’s family. You have all supported, prayed for, guided, challenged and inspired me. You have never let me feel alone. You have always reminded me that God is with us always, in His commandments, in His love and in His Spirit of wisdom.
Miigwetch!! Thank you, one and all! May we all, in the words of today’s Gospel, be a source of peace and courage to all those in need!