Father Mark Latcovich, president/rector of Borromeo and Saint Mary seminaries, celebrated a Mass on Aug. 16 in Sacred Heart Chapel at the Center for Pastoral Leadership during which five men were admitted to candidacy for Catholic Diocese of Cleveland’s permanent diaconate program.
Edward Linsky of Divine Word Parish in Kirtland; Christopher Loxterman of St. Mary Parish in Chardon; Darrel Sherman of St. Peter Parish in North Ridgeville; Mark Tomecko of St. Francis Xavier Parish in Medina; and John Zarbo of St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Fairport Harbor are in the first year of a four-year period of study and formation for the diaconate.
Deacon David Kushner, director of the permanent diaconate program, said candidacy is conferred after a man successfully completes a year of aspirancy.
After finishing their study and formation, the deacons will be ordained and will be assigned to parishes in the diocese where they will assist the bishop and priests. A deacon’s duties include assisting at the Eucharist, distributing holy Communion, witnessing and blessing marriages, proclaiming the Gospel and preaching, presiding at funerals and engaging in ministries of charity.
Men interested in exploring a vocation to the diaconate should contact the formation office at 440-943-7651.