April 29, 2017 – On a stormy morning which brought flooding, trees and power lines down throughout the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, four men along with a full crowd at The Cathedral of Saint Peter in Chains gathered for the Ordination of Deacons. The men ordained were Craig Edward Best from St. Margaret-St. John Church in Cincinnati, Jarred Lee Kohn from St. Mary Church in Pilothea, Andrew Jacob Smith from St. Luke Church in Beavercreek, and Jacob Edward Willig from Saint Antoninus Church in Cincinnati

The Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, in his homily spoke of hands. The deacon hands that hold the Gospel high, bless wedding rings, open doors, get a conference room ready with chairs, the hands that deacons provide in everyday duties. Bishop Binzer also spoke of the importance of prayer in their service as deacons.

These men will begin their final year of studies preparing for the ordination into the priesthood.

Scripture Connection: At that time, as the number of disciples continued to grow, the Hellenists complained against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. So the Twelve called together the community of the disciples and said, “It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at table. Brothers, select from among you seven reputable men, filled with the Spirit and wisdom, whom we shall appoint to this task, whereas we shall devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” The proposal was acceptable to the whole community, so they chose Stephen, a man filled with faith and the holy Spirit, also Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicholas of Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles who prayed and laid hands on them. The word of God continued to spread, and the number of the disciples in Jerusalem increased greatly; even a large group of priests were becoming obedient to the faith. – Acts 6:1-7