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

Before the Altar of the Chair in St. Peter’s Basilica, 15 men took vows of chastity and obedience to their bishop during an ordination Mass on October 3. The ceremony was led by Archbishop Alexander K. Sample of Portland, Oregon, who emphasized the importance of servanthood to the candidates from 13 U.S. dioceses.

“It’s not about you,” Archbishop Sample stated. “First and foremost, it’s about servanthood, it’s about service to the people of God and to Christ the Lord.” He further explained that laying prostrate symbolizes a complete surrender to Jesus.

The event was attended by U.S. Cardinals James Harvey and Edwin F. O’Brien, along with eight other U.S. bishops who concelebrated the Mass. Archbishop Sample highlighted that becoming deacons means taking on the identity of Christ as servants.

While discussing what defines a deacon, he noted that a deacon is “an icon of Christ.” Even as they continue into priesthood, they will always retain their identity as deacons.

During the ceremony, each candidate presented himself to Archbishop Sample for confirmation of worthiness amid applause from family and friends. They promised “to discharge with humble charity the office of the diaconate,” embrace celibacy, and conform their lives to Christ.

In preparation for Holy Year 2025, renovation works are ongoing at the Altar of the Chair where scaffolding surrounds it. Deacon Christian Hamrick from Nashville saw this as a reminder that renewal is part of faith life: “We need the support; we’re constantly renewing ourselves.”

Deacon Tristan Schubert expressed his joy at being ordained in St. Peter’s Basilica with his archbishop presiding over the Mass: “For most of the guys, he’s saying ‘Do you promise obedience to your ordinary?’ but for me it’s ‘to me and to my successor.’”

Schubert also works as a tour guide for Vatican necropolis and appreciated being ordained near St. Peter's tomb: "Knowing a lot about history... why St. Peter's (Basilica) was built here."