United to Christ
The deacon candidates lie prostrate during the singing of the Litany of Saints, signifying their total dependence on God.
At Ordination,
new deacons respond to call to service
BY ROSE O’CONNOR Digital and Social Media Manager, and MARY STADNYK Associate Editor
The centuries-long history of the diaconate in the life of the Church has always been defined by the call to service.
“The deacon assists his bishop, a successor to the apostles, to offer their apostolic ministry to the people of God in the proclamation of the Word, the liturgy of the Church and its works of charity,” Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., said in his homily Nov. 15 before ordaining nine new deacons.
And yet, the Bishop said, to be a deacon is about more than just performing tasks. He explained, “The deacon responds
to a call to be deeply, personally united to Jesus Christ who serves, to be deeply, personally represent in a visible way Jesus Christ who serves, to take the whole of his life – his marriage, his family, his profession – a deeply, personal witness to Jesus Christ who serves. In his ordination, all of these things become a ministry of service to, for and with Jesus Christ who serves.”
The Ordination Mass of the 2025 Class of Deacons drew loved ones, well-wishers and scores of clergy to St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral in Freehold. Hailing from throughout Burlington, Mercer, Monmouth and Ocean Counties, the Diocese’s newest deacons and their parishes are: Anthony Cullen, St. Benedict Parish, Holmdel; James D. de Poortere,
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Mike Ehrmann photo
Hearing the call
St. Catharine-St. Margaret Parish, Spring Lake; Chris I. Ellis Jr., Holy Innocents Parish, Neptune; Gerard (Gez) Ford, St. David the King Parish, Princeton Junction; Errol Giordani, St. Gabriel Parish, Marlboro; Steven A. Griggs, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, Whiting; Christopher J. McNicholas, St. Mary Parish, Middletown; Jeffrey B. Miceli, Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, Moorestown, and John Vitale, St. Gabriel Parish, Marlboro.
Their four years of formation included receiving theological instruction and pursuing advanced degrees from Immaculate Conception Seminary at Seton Hall University, South Orange, as well as gaining pastoral experience in parish settings. Father Christopher Colavito, director of vocations and the permanent diaconate program, said of the new deacons, “This class has been an immense joy to work with. They are the first class that I have worked with under our reformed formation
The newly ordained class of deacons pose for a photo with Bishop O’Connell; center; Father Christopher Colavito, diocesan director of vocations and director of the diaconate formation program, fifth from left; Father Jean Felicien, the Bishop’s secretary, and Msgr. Thomas Mullelly, episcopal vicar of clergy and consecrated life, at Bishop’s left.
Bishop O’Connell greets Deacon Miceli. Mike Ehrmann photo
Soon-to-be Deacon Vitale makes a Promise of Obedience to the Bishop. Mike Ehrmann photo
Bishop O’Connell hands the Book of the Gospels to Deacon de Poortre. Mike Ehrmann photo
Mike Ehrmann photo
process.”
Father Colavito expressed appreciation for their patience and resilience “as we tried new things and made adjustments along the way as we tried to best form these men as permanent deacons.”
Revisions to the program include its being shortened from five to four years of study with the fifth year focusing more on the practical aspects of diaconate ministry.
Father Colavito added, “I look forward to working with them in the future and receiving their feedback as to how we can continue to improve the program.”
The Diocese currently has 283 permanent deacons of whom 229 are active and 54 are retired.
Once ordained by the Bishop, deacons have the faculties to assist the priest at Mass during which they can proclaim the Gospel and preach the homily. Outside of Mass, the deacon is permitted to preside over prayer services and Baptisms, witness marriages, administer Viaticum to the dying and officiate at wakes and committals. Deacons can also bless religious articles.
In addition, deacons serve in various ministries including visiting the sick and homebound; oversee faith formation opportunities such as Scripture studies, the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults and religious education; participate in outreach programs in service to the poor and needy, and teach in sacramental preparation programs, such as for Baptism and marriages.
Married deacons benefit from the crucial support of their wives both during their formation and ministry after ordination. During the formation process, wives are welcome and encouraged to attend the classes as well engage in social gatherings hosted by the Office of Clergy and Consecrated Life when possible.
RITE OF ORDINATION
As part of the Ordination Rite, Msgr. Thomas Mullelly, diocesan episcopal vicar for clergy and consecrated life, called the candidates forward, testifying to their readiness to receive the Sacrament of Holy Orders and assume the responsibilities of a deacon.
Bishop O’Connell, in the name of the entire
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“I look forward to working with them.”
Dependence on the Father
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Church, accepted the testimony, and the congregation responded by applauding.
Each candidate then knelt before the Bishop, placing their hands in his and making a Promise of Obedience to him and his successors. In an act signifying their complete dependence on God, the nine men, while facing the altar, prostrated themselves on the floor, as the Diocesan Festival Choir led the congregation in singing the Litany of Saints.
As the candidates knelt before the Bishop for the second time, he placed his hands on their heads, conferring the Holy Spirit upon them and silently praying the words of consecration.
The newly-ordained deacons, with assistance from the priests they had selected, were then vested with the stole and dalmatic, the liturgical vestments that symbolize their ministry.
The rite continued with each deacon kneeling again before Bishop O’Connell, who handed him the Book of the Gospels, instructing him with the words, “Receive the Gospel of Christ, whose herald you have become. Believe what you read, teach what you believe and practice what you teach.”
During the Liturgy of the Eucharist, several deacons’ wives participated in the Presentation of the Gifts and the new deacons assisted with the distribution of Holy Communion.
GRACE AND WITNESS
Following the Mass, the nine new deacons and their families greeted loved ones and well-wishers outside the Co-Cathedral.
“This has been a journey,” Deacon Griggs said. “There’s been a lot of growth, not only in my faith, but my service as well.”
While the deacon initially thought about working with youth, his relocation to the Whiting area and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish led him to begin working with the elderly.
“At first, I was intimidated. But the more I got to know and serve them, the more I grew to love them,” he said. “God put me right where he wanted me to be.”
Though it’s been years since they graduated from Penn State University, a group of fraternity brothers and longtime friends of Deacon Miceli were among those in the congregation.
Bishop O’Connell imposes hands on the head of Anthony Cullen, ordaining him a deacon. Mike Ehrmann photo
Wives of the newly ordained deacons participate in the Presentation of the Gifts. Mike Ehrmann photo
“The writing was on the wall,” Dan Morris said upon learning about Jeff’s intention to be a deacon. “I think the world of Jeff. He’s a great person and his becoming a deacon is a great fit for him and for the Church.”
“I am excited for him. It’s been a long five years,” said Anne Cullen, wife of Deacon Anthony Cullen. Noting that her husband is the campus minister at St. Benedict Parish and School, Holmdel, she added that she was glad “a few of his students came today for him.”
“He’s following in the Lord’s footsteps.”
Tears welled in Christine de Poortere’s eyes as she reflected on her husband’s Ordination.
“I just get so emotional. I am just really proud of him,” she said. “I am glad he’s here today, surrounded by family and friends.”
Deacon Tony Ford and his wife, Mary, parents of the newly-ordained Deacon Gez Ford, had flown in from England with several other family members for the Ordination.
After noting that he was ordained 21 years ago for the Diocese of Shrewsbury and that coincidently, he and Gez were both 59 years old at the time of their respective ordinations, the elder Deacon Ford admitted to being “overwhelmed with emotion” when Bishop O’Connell imposed hands on his son’s head.
“He’s following in the Lord’s footsteps, I don’t think he’s following in mine,” Deacon Ford said. “I’m so thankful to God for what he has done.”
“Surreal” is how Mary Ford described the feeling of having both a husband and son serving
Father Evarist Kabagambe, pastor of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, Whiting, right, assists with vesting newly ordained Deacon Steven A. Griggs. Mike Ehrmann photo
Bishop O’Connell administers the Eucharist to newly ordained Deacon Chris I. Ellis. Mike Ehrmann photo
Deacons in attendance offer the Sign of Peace to the newly ordained deacons. Here, a deacon greets his newly ordained brother, Errol Giordani. Mike Ehrmann photo
Deacon Christopher J. McNicholas pauses for a photo with his pastor, Father Jeffrey Kegley, of St. Mary Parish, Middletown. Mike Ehrmann photo
Congratulations Deacon Steven Griggs on your ordination to the diaconate
With prayers and loving gratitude from the priests, deacons, religious, staff and parishioners of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church
With open arms
the Church as deacons.
“I have feelings of overwhelming grace and gratitude,” Mary said.
“Sense of completion” was the phrase Nadine Ford used when reflecting on her husband’s Ordination.
Between the many years that Gez had devoted to ministry and later with his diaconate preparation, Nadine said, “The joy I’m feeling right now goes beyond today. It’s a culmination of many years.”
Father Eugene Roberts said he and the community of St. Gabriel Parish, Marlboro, were doubly blessed to have two newly ordained deacons – Deacons Ford and Giordani. Another deacon candidate is expected to be ordained next year, which would bring the parish to six deacons.
“We welcome them with open arms.” Father Roberts echoed the Bishop’s words about the deacons being ordained “to serve the people of God.”
“That is what ministry is about,” Father Roberts said, “being present to the people in the name of Jesus Christ.”
Video of the Ordination Mass will be available at youtube.com/trentondiocese.
Congratulations on your Ordination Deacon Jim DePoortere! May God bless you abundantly in your new ministry.
Fr. Damian, Fr. Gregg, & the Staff of St. CatharineSt. Margaret Parish SPRING LAKE
Congratulations to Our Newly Ordained Deacons!
With hearts full of joy and gratitude, St. Gabriel’s Parish celebrates the ordination of Deacon Errol Giordani and Deacon John Vitale
Ordained to the Holy Order of Deacons November 15, 2025
May your ministry be filled with grace, compassion, and the joy of serving God’s people.
We thank you for answering the Lord’s call with faith and love.
“Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.” – psalm 40:8
With love and prayers from your St. Gabriel’s Parish family, Marlboro
In Their Own Words
The Monitor asked the newly ordained deacons what aspect of their Ordination day will most impact their diaconal ministry.
Deacon Anthony Cullen
Iamoverjoyed and working hard as a deacon and middle school religion teacher. As Bishop O’Connell said at Ordination when handing me the Book of Gospels, “Believe what you read. Teach what you believe. Practice what you teach,” is being fulfilled. As campus minister of St. Benedict Parish and School, Holmdel, I am an example of the faith as a member of the clergy. Every day I bless Rosaries and religious articles, deliver homilies, preside at Benediction, talk with kids and parents, baptize babies, bring Communion to the sick and teach the faith day in and out.
Looking back, the unwavering encouragement of my family, the camaraderie of my friends, and the warm reception from my parish will sustain me through the challenges ahead. I cannot forget the memories of my parents, who instilled in me the truths of our Catholic faith. Those lessons now form the bedrock of my diaconal calling, truly guiding every step I take in ministry.
Deacon Chris I. Ellis, Jr.
TheMost impactful has been planting the seed of faith in the young people and adults I am with daily. Being a servant of the Church at the altar and being with the people of God has been so rewarding.
Deacon James D. de Poortere
The moment that stands out most vividly is the Bishop’s laying on of hands. It was a simple, profound gesture—a quiet invocation of the Holy Spirit to fortify me for the ministry ahead. The prayer that accompanied it petitioned God to enable me to serve with unwavering fidelity, and in that instant, I felt an outpouring of grace that words alone cannot capture. This Sacrament has deepened my faith, empowering me to offer myself selflessly and humbly in service to Christ and His Church.
moment of the Litany of the Saints and my prostration during ordination will most deeply impact my ministry. Lying prostrate before God, surrounded by the prayers of the Church on earth and in heaven, impressed upon me the profound truth that ministry can only be sustained through reliance on God’s grace. It affirmed that ministry is never carried out alone; I am supported, guided, and strengthened by the prayers of the Church and the constant mercy of God.
Deacon Gerard (Gez) Ford
Itwas such an overwhelmingly moving day. I sensed the power of the Holy Spirit strengthening my resolve to serve the Lord. I was particularly happy to promise obedience and respect to the Bishop and to receive those famous worlds declaring me as a herald of the Gospel.
Greeting my brother deacons (and my father deacon) and offering blessings upon the people of God… It’s an amazing gift to be able and ordained to serve. Come Holy Spirit, I am excited for more…
Deacon Cullen takes a selfie with Father John Michael Patilla after the Ordination Mass. Rose O’Connor photo
Cell phones were busy on Ordination Day, capturing highlights such as this where Deacon de Poortre greets loved ones. Mike Ehrmann photo
Newly ordained Deacon Ellis embraces a brother deacon during the Sign of Peace. Mike Ehrmann photo
Deacon Ford blesses his nephew, Francis Phoenix from Manchester, England. Mike Ehrmann photo
Deacon Errol Giordani
The aspect of my Ordination that will be most impactful to my diaconal ministry is the Sacramental Configuration to Christ the Servant, symbolized by the laying hands by Bishop David O’Connell, C.M., and the charge to be a herald of the Gospel and a servant of the most vulnerable and forgotten.
This spiritual transformation permanently gives me a new life and entitles me, by the grace of God, to a lifelong commitment to serve the Church, the poor and the needy.
Deacon Steven A. Griggs
Ithinkfeeling so very humbled that not only my family traveled from Georgia and Washington state to share this day with me, but also the priest (Father Sean Loomis from St. Madeline in Ridley Park) that not only started me on my journey to completing my Sacraments, but introducing me to the permanent diaconate. He came to concelebrate the Ordination Mass and share in this day. I will never forget this day for obvious reasons, but these made it so much more special.
Deacon Christopher J. McNicholas
was at that moment that I truly felt the peace of the Spirit descend on me. It wasn’t the peace you would expect from completing a task or passing a test. I think until that very moment I hadn’t fully surrendered to God’s will. Was I good enough? Was I prepared enough? Was I fit to serve his Church? But in that moment, in that exchange of peace, i knew that his will was done.
Deacon Jeffrey B. Miceli
Interestingly enough, it wasn’t the laying on of hands that was the most impactful moment for me, but rather when I exchanged the sign of peace with the Bishop as a newly ordained deacon. It
Soon-to-be Deacon McNicholas proclaims a Reading during Mass.
Three interrelated thoughts come to mind. First, I was overwhelmed by the beauty of the Sacrament and the clear presence of the Holy Spirit. Second, I was deeply touched by the support of the priests, deacons, parishioners, family members, and friends - some I’ve known for more than 40 years - who attended the Ordination. Third, it was a profound experience to witness firsthand the Bishop’s direction to: receive and be a herald of the Gospel of Christ: “Believe what you read; teach what you believe; and practice what you teach.” Collectively, these thoughts form my mission statement: guided by the Holy Spirit, and with the love and support of community, I must always strive to do my best to live the Gospel and help others to do the same.
Deacon John Vitale
TheDeacon Miceli greets family and friends prior to the start of Mass.
homily given by Bishop O’Connell was most impactful to me. His emphasis on service to others in the Kingdom of Christ as well as a quote from one of my favorite lines in the Gospel where the master tells the servant well done my good and faithful servant.
Deacon Vitale is visibly happy following his Ordination. Mike Ehrmann photo
The Monitor has more to share from the Diocese of Trenton’s newest deacons!
Deacon Giordani receives a congratulatory embrace from a well wisher. Rose O’Connor photo
Deacon Griggs enjoys conversation with family members and friends. Mike Ehrmann photo
Mike Ehrmann photo
Soon-to-be
Mike Ehrmann photo
Your parish family of HOLY INNOCENTS, Neptune, appreciates your hard work and your dedication. We share your joy as you begin your journey in the service of God and our parish.
St. David the King Parish
GOD BLESS DEACON GEZ FORD IN HIS NEW MINISTRY.
The parish community of St. David’s gives thanks to God for calling Deacon Gez to this sacred ministry and looks forward to his service here at St. David the King.
We join in prayerful support for Deacon Gez as he begins this new chapter of discipleship and service to Christ and His Church.
Congratulations to all the newly ordained and God Bless them in their ministries.
Congratulations TO OUR NEWLY ORDAINED
Deacon Anthony Cullen
On this special occasion, may God’s love and blessings be upon you.
May He grant you continued grace, peace, and wisdom as you begin your ministry.
Very Reverend Garry
Koch, Pastor Reverend
Adam
Midor, Parochial
Vicar and the St. Benedict Catholic Church and School Community
Oratorian
brother, deacon sees Lord’s call in path to priesthood
BY MARY STADNYK Associate Editor
As his Dec. 20 priestly Ordination day nears, Rev. Brother Donald Ronning, C.O., has been practicing celebrating Mass, in which “I try not to become overwhelmed by the experience and thoughts of my unworthiness for such a grace-filled encounter.”
He served as a deacon for 19 years, but “felt it was the Lord’s call to equip me for even greater service among those in need.”
“Being able to administer the Sacraments, especially the Sacrament of Healing and of service, will open for me a new level of closeness between the people of God and our Lord, Jesus,” he said.
Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., will ordain the Oratorian brother a priest during a 10 a.m. Mass in the Oratory Church of St. Anthony of Padua, Red Bank.
At the time of his 2006 Ordination to the diaconate, Rev. Brother Ronning was widowed and working for the Superior Court of New Jersey for Essex County. He was assigned to St. Agnes Parish, Atlantic Highlands.
Fast forward 10 years: Rev. Brother
Ronning was nearing retirement when he joined St. Anthony of Padua Parish as a deacon. At that time, Father Alberto Tamayo, C.O., pastor of St. Anthony of Padua Parish and Oratory provost, and Nicholas Dolan, C.O., a seminarian at the time, were in the process of forming an oratory: a community of secular priests and brothers who do not take vows of poverty, chastity and obedience.
“They told me of the joy of St. Philip, known as the Second Apostle of Rome and the Apostle of Joy,” Rev. Brother Ronning recalled.
“It became my newest and most important direction in life.”
When Father Tamayo asked him if he would be interested in joining them in the Oratory, Rev. Brother Ronning said, “It was an opportunity I often thought about but never imagined would happen. It became my newest and most important direction in life.”
“Living in a religious community appealed to me,” he said.
Though Rev. Brother Ronning had
Rev. Brother Donald Ronning, C.O., carrying the Book of the Gospels, in front, served as the deacon for the 2025 Chrism Mass in St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, Freehold. Brother Ronning will be ordained a priest for the Red Bank Oratory by Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., Dec. 20 at 10 a.m. in St. Anthony of Padua Church, Red Bank. Mike Ehrmann photo
participated in the diocesan diaconate program, he is currently studying at Immaculate Conception Seminary at Seton Hall University, South Orange, and taking in-house courses that are particular to Oratorian formation.
He said it’s been a constant source of joy and fulfillment in his 19 years as a deacon to see “the people in the parish as part of my extended family.”
“I like being needed, helping them grow closer to the Lord,” he said.
Reflecting on Brother Ronning’s upcoming Ordination, Father Tamayo said, “It’s such a joy to have our second priestly Ordination for the Oratory and our first here at home in the Oratory now that we are a pontifical congregation.”
“Brother Donald’s call first to the Oratory and now to the priesthood shows that, no matter what age we are, God is never done working on us.”