Ordinations to the Priesthood and Transitional Diaconate

The ordination of men to the priesthood and diaconate is a very exciting event 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 at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More, and all the faithful are normally invited to attend. (This year these events are closed to the public due to COVID-19 occupancy restrictions, but they will be live-streamed from the Cathedral 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 path 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 2021

Transitional Diaconate Ordination: Saturday April 10, 11:00 a.m.

Bishop Burbidge ordained Deacons Philip D. Briggs, Peter J. Clem, John F. O'Farrell, Robert C. Renner, Daniel S. Reuwer, Daniel A. Rice and Peter J. St. George to the Transitional Diaconate at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More.

Watch the recording below.

See the Arlington Catholic Herald Coverage.

Download the program for the liturgy.

Priesthood Ordination: Scheduled for Saturday June 5, 11:00 a.m.

Bishop Burbidge will ordain Reverend Mr. Jonathan Fioramonti, Reverend Mr. John Paul Heisler, Reverend Mr. Jonathan Smith and Reverend Mr. Joe Townsend to the priesthood at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More.

There is normally a Holy Hour on the eve of Priestly Ordinations to pray for these men about to become priests of Jesus Christ. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, we ask that the faithful of the diocese pray for them from their homes or parishes on the evening of June 4. See Ordination Coverage from last year.