Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez to ordain three men as permanent deacons for Philadelphia Archdiocese
Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez will ordain three men to the Permanent Diaconate for service in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia following their completion of a six-year formation program at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, according to a May 5 announcement. The Rite of Ordination is scheduled for Saturday, May 9, at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Philadelphia.
The ordination highlights the role of permanent deacons as ordained clergy who serve through ministries focused on Word, Sacrament, and Charity. Deacons assist bishops and priests by proclaiming the Gospel, administering certain sacraments, and serving those in need within their communities.
The Mass will be streamed live beginning at 10:00 a.m. via several online platforms including Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary’s website and Facebook page, Archbishop Pérez’s Facebook page, and the Archdiocesan Vimeo Channel. Support from the Catholic Charities Appeal has made this broadcast possible.
Permanent deacons may be single or married men dedicated to forming a “bridge” between church leadership and parishioners through acts of service known as diakonia. The Cathedral Basilica serves as the main worship site for such events according to the official website.
Founded in 1832, Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary prepares candidates for priesthood and diaconate roles through academic study as well as spiritual formation programs that serve both local parishes and other dioceses across the country.
The Catholic Charities Appeal remains an important fundraising effort supporting more than one hundred ministries that provide food, shelter, education, social services, special education initiatives, support for retired priests, cultural outreach programs and family services throughout the region each year.
As noted by its official website, “the Archdiocese of Philedelphia reached a scale serving more than 1.3 million Catholics across its area” while working “to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” build strong faith communities “and assist others through charitable and justice-focused efforts.” Archbishop Nelson Pérez has served as archbishop since his installation in 2020.
