Ordinations to the Priesthood and Transitional Diaconate

The ordination of men to the priesthood and diaconate are very exciting events for our diocese. Properly called Holy Orders, ordination is the means by which a Catholic baptized male becomes a deacon, priest or bishop. Every year the Diocese of Arlington celebrates Masses of Ordination to the priesthood, the transitional diaconate (seminarians en route to priesthood) and permanent diaconate, and all the faithful are invited to attend. This year's ordinations will also be live-streamed so all can participate.

We the faithful celebrate these ordinations because these new priests and deacons make Christ present and the sacraments more available. The ordinations show us that the Holy Spirit is working in the hearts and minds of the people of the diocese, stirring up in men's hearts the desire to follow and imitate Christ. An ordination may mark the end of formation, but it is also the beginning of life as a priest or deacon: a life of generous service to the faithful of the diocese.

Learn more below about the candidates for ordination, the paths they've followed to this point, as well as all that goes into these ceremonies. Come join in these celebrations (at least virtually) and give thanks to God!

Ordination Events and Coverage

Transitional Diaconate Ordination: Saturday April 15, 11 a.m., St. Mary of Sorrows Catholic Church
Bishop Burbidge will ordain James Ryan Joseph and Sean-Michael Vincent Nypaver to the transitional diaconate on Saturday April 15, at 11 a.m. at St. Mary of Sorrows Catholic Church. All are welcome to witness this important step in their formation as future priests of our diocese.

Priesthood Ordination: Saturday June 3, 11 a.m., Holy Trinity Catholic Church
Witness the beauty and power of the sacrament of Holy Orders as Bishop Burbidge will ordain some of our seminarians to the Priesthood. More details to come!