Seminarians, faculty and staff gathered May 5 for the celebration of Solemn Vespers and the conferral of degrees on those completing their seminary formation. Twenty-three deacons received Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degrees, with several also receiving Master's of Arts degrees.

Following the liturgy, the traditional "Deacon Night" celebration followed in the seminary dining room.  Jon-Daniel Schnobrich (Third-Theology, Diocese of Burlington) was the master of ceremonies during the light-hearted celebration, reminding those gathered of some of the more memorable events in the history of the Class of 2006. Faculty members and class presidents also offered toasts for the graduating deacons.

Additionally, the Seminary recently welcomed 30 men into the ministry of Lector, and 29 men into the ministry of Acolyte.

Bishop Salvatore Matano, Ordinary of the Diocese of Burlington, instituted 30 men into the ministry of Lector, April 28. In his homily, Bishop Matano instructed the men on the importance of assimilating Holy Scripture and proclaiming it well. Following the Solemn Mass, a light reception was held in Patriot Hall, at which family members and friends of the new lectors joined the faculty, staff, and other seminarians in marking the important occasion.

Twenty-nine men received the ministry of Acolyte, May 12, with Archbishop Wilton Gregory, Ordinary of the Archdiocese of Atlanta, celebrating the Solemn Mass and Institution. During his homily, Archbishop Gregory gave an enlightening explanation of the word "acolyte," which comes from the Greek word Jesus used to tell the disciples to "follow" Him. Archbishop Gregory explained that an Acolyte must follow Jesus more closely, and draw others to Him as well.  

A reception was held after the sacred liturgy, with a sizable crowd of friends, relatives, seminarians, faculty, and staff attending.