Seminarians Thomas Elliott and Colby McKee were formally accepted as candidates for Holy Orders by Bishop Carl A. Kemme on Friday, July 26, during a Mass at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita. The ceremony included the Rite of Admission to Candidacy for Holy Orders.

In his homily, Bishop Kemme reflected on the role of parents in nurturing future priests, drawing parallels with Saints Joachim and Anne, traditionally recognized as the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary. "Having successfully completed their college formation are to be admitted as official candidates for the priesthood," he announced regarding Elliott and McKee.

Bishop Kemme acknowledged that while there are no biblical or historical records about Saints Joachim and Anne, a pious tradition dating back to the second century suggests their significant influence on Mary's upbringing. He emphasized that their home was likely one of deep Jewish faith, which played a crucial role in Mary's acceptance of God's will.

"Our powers of deduction... gives us the assurance of the contribution they must surely have made in providing the kind of home and family life for Mary to make her complete yes to God’s will," he said.

The bishop highlighted that just as Joachim and Anne provided a foundation for Mary's vocation, so too do modern-day parents play an essential role in fostering vocations within their families. "Sometimes... it happens... in spite of our families," he noted but stressed that parental support is generally significant and positive.

Bishop Kemme reminded Elliott and McKee that their discernment process is ongoing. "We are all called to discern, but now the church admits them to a new reality," he stated. He urged them to use this period wisely by praying diligently, studying hard, developing necessary skills, and beginning to live as priests even before ordination.

He concluded by expressing gratitude towards those supporting these seminarians: "I am grateful to their parents, family members, pastors, fellow parishioners, and friends who are supporting them now and in the future along this challenging path."

"May the Blessed Virgin Mary and her holy parents help you... with their shining witness and their unfailing intercessory prayers," Bishop Kemme added.