In a solemn ceremony at St. Peter's Basilica, 18 seminarians from the Pontifical North American College in Rome were ordained to the diaconate yesterday morning, September 28th. This significant step marks the last stage in seminary formation before their eventual ordination to the priesthood.

During the ordination ceremony, these men prostrated themselves in front of the Altar, dedicating their lives to serving God's Church and His people. This sacred event took place inside St. Peter's Basilica, a place of great significance for the Catholic Church, as it stands above the bones of St. Peter himself.

Among the newly ordained deacons is Deacon David Thomas Lee from the Diocese of Nashville, Tennessee. He graciously shared his thoughts on the ordination and his faith journey.

"It was such an incredible blessing to be ordained on top of the bones of St. Peter, especially considering the challenges we faced, coming in the middle of the 2020 COVID lockdown," Deacon David remarked. "Throughout my time here in Rome, I've been formed by this amazing city and the exceptional seminary that we have for American seminarians. Finally reaching the point where we lay down our lives for the Lord was incredibly moving."

The transitional diaconate is the first step in the sacrament of holy orders, with most of the newly ordained deacons expected to be ordained as priests in their respective dioceses within the next six to twelve months.

Deacon David also shared his unique experience at the North American College in Rome, where seminarians from across the United States gather for their formation.

"Studying here in Rome at the North American College has been a great experience of the Universal Church within our own country," he said. "We come from various states, from Washington to New York, and it's a remarkable experience to be surrounded by men from different dioceses, all preparing to become priests back in the United States."

These men not only study at various universities in Rome but also share a common life of prayer and formation as they prepare for their future roles as priests in the service of God and His Church.

The ordination to the diaconate represents a significant step on their journey, and it was a day filled with joy and anticipation as these seminarians take one step closer to serving their communities as priests.