“We rejoice in the fact that you are willing to pursue this vocation,” said Bishop Michael Woost in addressing Tucker von Carlowitz and Michael Niese who were presented to him for candidacy to the permanent diaconate.
In the presence of family, friends, clergy and members of the diaconate formation community, von Carlowitz and Niese stood before Bishop Woost who called them to continue their formation during Mass in the Sacred Heart Chapel at the Center for Pastoral Leadership. The two men will continue formation for the next four years in classroom instruction, field education experiences and spiritual opportunities.
In reflecting on the Gospel for the 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Aug. 20), Bishop Woost noted that at one point Jesus was silent, possibly seeing how the disciples would react to the persistent woman asking for a healing. He implored the candidates to listen for God’s voice and to be persistent in faith and prayer.
(See photo gallery above.)
Niese, his wife Janelle and their family are members of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Wadsworth.
St. Monica Parish in Garfield Heights is the home parish of Von Carlowitz, his wife Genevieve and their family.
Following the homily, each candidate was called forward by name to stand in front of the bishop where they promised to continue and complete their formation and to prepare themselves in mind and spirit to give faithful service to the Church.
After the liturgy, there was a reception in the Founders Room of the CPL.
For more information on the permanent diaconate program, contact Deacon George Malec, director, or click here.