Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Eighteen men promised to serve the Lord with their lives, becoming deacons for the Diocese of Orlando on June 8, 2024. Family and friends filled the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe in support of the new clergy who offered themselves as witnesses of faith and diakonia, which is Greek for “service.”

As he prayed with his wife, Lynette, just hours before ordination, Deacon Edgar Jecino’s thoughts returned to his recent retreat reflection on Eucharistic Prayer III. At the retreat, the 18 men were asked to reflect on how they were willing to offer themselves as a “spiritual sacrifice.” Deacon Jecino recalled the Mass when the priest extends his hands over the offerings and says, “May He make of us an eternal offering to you so that we may obtain an inheritance with your elect.” He said that sentence stood out in his mind.

“I never thought of us deacons as offering ourselves eternally. I always thought of it as Christ offering Himself. But in the prayer, we are trying to reciprocate that offering — that our life going forward is offered for Him and the Kingdom of God,” Jecino said. He reflected on lying on the floor before the bishop. “We are going down into the tomb with Him, dying to self eternally, joining Him in His sacrifice.” The reality was sobering yet filled with peace. “What Jesus did for us was out of love. If I am going to follow Him, this is the path,” he said.

Deacon Jecino acknowledged it will not be easy. He has already faced tribulation, losing his son early in his formation. However, he believes Jesus will continue to provide strength for him to surrender and put himself last to help bring forth God’s kingdom. He noted he would continue relying on God for sustenance and commitment alongside his wife. “Scripture is my fuel, and daily Mass sets the tone,” he added.

Deacon Felix Hernández and his wife, Becky, shared similar sentiments. “We are full of joy for this moment. It’s been a journey accompanied by many in our community of St. Isaac Jogues,” said Deacon Hernández. Quoting Romans 8:30: “And those whom He predestined He also called; those whom He called He also justified; those whom He justified He also glorified.” Hernández emphasized that scripture guides them through reflection and understanding God's call.

In his homily, Bishop John Noonan quoted Pope Francis: “As Church, we are entrusted with putting out into deep waters and casting nets of the Gospel...bringing life offers rather than accusations.” Noonan continued emphasizing their role in spreading God's word within a multicultural society amid uncertainty and poverty.

Deacon Joe Pizzarello from St. Margaret Mary parish reflected on how their journey prepared not only them but also their children aged 8-18 years old during formation years captured in family videos showing growth both spiritually and personally.

“It’s been an amazing journey for all of us," Pizzarello stated."It’s a celebration not only for our family but our parish family too... We’re ready to serve Lord similarly like serving families... All we can do is say every day ‘Here I am Lord.’”

By Glenda Meekins

Florida Catholic Staff

June 13th