Reflection on the 12th Anniversary of My Diaconal Ordination and Canada Day!
Today, I give thanks to God as I celebrate the 12th anniversary of my ordination to the diaconate on June 30, 2014. Looking back over these years, my heart is filled with gratitude for the gift of vocation, for the people who have journeyed with me, and for the many ways God has revealed His faithfulness throughout my life and ministry.
Diaconate ordination at St. Peter's Parish, now known as Our Lady, Queen of Families Parish, in Mount Pearl, took place on June 30, 2014.
The diaconate has its roots in the life of the early Church. As the Christian community grew, the Apostles found it increasingly difficult to meet all the needs of the faithful while continuing their mission of prayer and preaching. In the Acts of the Apostles, we read that the Twelve gathered the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should neglect the word of God to serve at tables” (Acts 6:2). Therefore, seven men of good reputation, filled with the Spirit and wisdom, were chosen to assist in caring for the needs of the community, especially the poor and vulnerable (Acts 6:1–6). This moment is recognized as the biblical foundation of the diaconate.
From the beginning, deacons were called to serve. They became ministers of charity, ministers of the Word, and ministers at the altar. They assisted the Apostles and, later, the bishops and priests in proclaiming the Gospel, caring for those in need, and strengthening the faith of God’s people.
My experience in the diaconate allowed me to share in this beautiful ministry. As a deacon, I assisted in baptizing infants, proclaimed the Gospel at Mass, served at the altar, officiated at marriages, and accompanied those preparing to enter the Church through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). These experiences taught me that ministry is never about status or privilege; it is about service. The stole worn diagonally across the chest reminds a deacon that he is called to imitate Christ, who came not to be served but to serve.
Diaconate ordination at St. Peter's Parish, now known as Our Lady, Queen of Families Parish, in Mount Pearl, took place on June 30, 2014.
Only seven days after my ordination, Archbishop Martin Currie assigned me to Sacred Heart Parish in Marystown. On July 7, 2014, I made the four-hour journey from St. John’s to the Burin Peninsula. There, under the guidance of Fr. Cecil Critch, I served in a meaningful and fruitful diaconate ministry. From July 2014 to May 2015, I served the faithful of Marystown and the wider Burin Peninsula. Those months were a precious period of learning, growth, and pastoral formation. The people welcomed me into their lives, shared their faith journeys, and helped prepare me for priestly ministry. Looking back, I see how God was shaping my heart through those experiences before my ordination to the priesthood on May 14, 2015, at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist in St. John’s.
Why is it important to revisit this experience today?
First, gratitude is an essential part of every vocation. Like every deacon and priest, I need to remember that ordination is a gift. God did not call me because I was perfect or more worthy than others. He called me despite my weaknesses, limitations, failures, and fears. The Lord chose me not for what I could accomplish on my own, but because He desired to work through me. As St. Paul reminds us, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Every anniversary is an opportunity to remember that ministry is ultimately God’s work, not mine.
Diaconate ordination at St. Peter's Parish, now known as Our Lady, Queen of Families Parish, in Mount Pearl, took place on June 30, 2014.
Second, the ordained ministry reminds us that God has not abandoned His people. Through every generation, the Lord continues to call men and women to serve His Church in various vocations—married life, single life, religious life, and ordained ministry. The presence of deacons, priests, bishops, religious, and faithful lay people is a visible sign that Christ continues to shepherd His people. God remains present among us, accompanying us through both joyful and difficult times.
It is especially meaningful that the anniversary of my diaconal ordination falls just one day before Canada Day. As Canadians celebrate our nation’s birthday on July 1, we are invited not only to remember the founding of Confederation in 1867 but also to give thanks for the many blessings we enjoy as a nation.
Canada Day is an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices and vision of those who helped build this country. Through their efforts, Canada became a place many proudly call the “True North, Strong and Free.” Yet beyond political achievements and national milestones, Canada Day invites us to recognize God’s providence throughout our history. We remember the First Nations peoples who first inhabited these vast lands, whose cultures and traditions continue to enrich our country. We remember immigrants who arrived seeking hope and opportunity and who contribute to nation building. We remember all those who helped build communities rooted in peace, compassion, justice, and mutual respect.
For us in Newfoundland and Labrador, July 1 holds another profound meaning. It is Memorial Day, when we remember the brave Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who gave their lives at Beaumont-Hamel in the First World War. Their courage, dedication, and willingness to sacrifice themselves for others remain a powerful witness to selfless service. Their sacrifice reminds us that freedom, peace, and community often come at a great cost.
As I reflect on both my diaconal anniversary and Canada Day, several lessons stand out.
First, true greatness is found in service. The first deacons were chosen to serve others, especially the poor and vulnerable. Likewise, every Christian is called to serve according to his or her vocation.
Second, God works through ordinary people. The Apostles, the first deacons, the founders of Canada, the soldiers of Beaumont-Hamel, and countless faithful Christians were not perfect people. Yet God used them to accomplish extraordinary things.
Third, gratitude strengthens faith. Remembering God’s blessings helps us recognize His presence even during difficult times.
Fourth, sacrifice bears fruit. Whether in ministry, family life, nation-building, or defending freedom, meaningful achievements often require generosity, perseverance, and self-giving love.
Finally, hope remains stronger than any challenge. The same God who guided the early Church, sustained generations of Canadians, and called me to ordained ministry continues to walk with us today.
As I celebrate twelve years since my ordination as a deacon, I thank God for the privilege of serving His people. As we celebrate Canada Day and observe Memorial Day, may we also give thanks for the countless blessings we have received as a nation and as a people of faith. May we never forget those who came before us, and may we continue to serve one another with humility, generosity, and love.
May God bless Canada. May God bless Newfoundland and Labrador. And may God continue to bless His holy people with the gift of faith, hope, and service.
Happy Canada Day and blessed Memorial Day to all.