The week of August 22-26, seven transitional deacons for the Diocese of Jacmel made their retreat before their priestly ordination. Sharing our holy ground with these men was a privilege for all who love and work in the Felician Mission. Fr. Lautere (our chaplain) was the retreat director. As some of you know, this past week in Haiti was turbulent with daily demonstrations throughout the country, even in Jacmel. But nothing is impossible with God who desired to prepare these men through Word, Sacrament, and silence for their Ordination to the Priesthood on Saturday, August 27. We had both Martha’s and Mary’s working to prepare the volunteer house, to cook and to be sacristan.

Saturday, August 27, the priests of the Diocese gathered with Bishop Erick Glandas for the procession to the Cathedral from our house. This has become the custom on big occasions.

During the Rite of Ordination, you hear the following:

Vicar: Most Reverend Father, holy mother Church asks you to ordain these, our brothers, to the responsibility of the Priesthood.
(The Bishop inquires as to the worthiness of the candidates.)
Bishop: Do you know them to be worthy?
Vicar: After inquiry among the Christian people and upon the recommendation of those
responsible, I testify that they have been found worthy.
(After judging them worthy, he elects them for ordination.)
Bishop: Relying on the help of the Lord God and our Savior Jesus Christ, we choose these men, our brothers, for the Order of the Priesthood.
All present: Thanks be to God
(All present express their assent by applause.)