Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre ordained Cole McDowell to the transitional diaconate on April 20 during a liturgy in the Basilica of St. Joseph Proto Cathedral in Bardstown, Ky. Deacon McDowell’s home parish. During the ordination, Archbishop Fabre prayed for Deacon McDowell's success, stating that he should be "effective in action, gentle in ministry and constant in prayer."

Deacon McDowell, aged 30, is on the path to priesthood within the Archdiocese of Louisville. Archbishop Fabre emphasized the significance of the diaconate as a transitional step in the formation of seminarians nearing the end of their training.

The special liturgy, attended by a large supportive crowd, was also graced by Archbishop Emeritus Joseph E. Kurtz and Bishop William Medley of the Diocese of Owensboro, Ky. Archbishop Fabre, in his homily, directly addressed Deacon McDowell, stating, “From this day on you are to be one of God’s ordained ministers, humbly serving the people of God.”

Highlighting the permanence of the grace bestowed upon Deacon McDowell through ordination, Archbishop Fabre remarked, “Ordination as a deacon is not a transitional grace but a permanent grace, called down upon you today, Cole, for the rest of your life.”

Further emphasizing the importance of service, Archbishop Fabre noted, “Rooting your life in service will not only enrich your life as a deacon but enrich your life as a priest.” Archbishop Kurtz also expressed confidence in Deacon McDowell, stating, “I know you will do well. I join with everyone to say how proud we are.”