Two friars ordained deacons on World Mission Sunday

Bishop Perry praised the men for their progress toward the priesthood. He advised them to expect challenges, seek support, stay genuine, accept criticism, and share their vulnerabilities with those they serve. 

“People who are hurting need to know the kingdom of God is at hand,” he said. “For too long, [the Church has] failed to share such a hope-filled message. Now more than ever, we need to get it right. The Lord is counting on us to make him credible in this world. And in so doing, by going about in the world as fervent Christians, we can bring hope to this broken world.” 

Br. Larry Janezic, OFM, representing the Franciscan Friars of the Province of Our Lady of Guadalupe, asked Bishop Perry to ordain the friars as deacons and confirmed their suitability. 

Br. Maikel, from Holguín, Cuba, has served as a Franciscan friar in the Caribbean and worked with immigrants at the El Paso, Texas border. He now serves St. Peter Claver Parish in Macon, Georgia, and hopes to be ordained next year. 

“I pray that I may live this gift faithfully, always available to serve where I am most needed, whether at the altar, on the soccer field with young people, or in the community, sharing life with everyone,” he said, calling himself a “very happy friar.” 

Br. Maikel’s vocation is inspired by St. Francis and many others, especially his grandmother Alma, who passed away in Cuba the day before his diaconate ordination. 

“She taught me to trust in God amid religious persecution in a country under communist dictatorship,” he said. “My brothers in fraternity have also inspired me with their example of what it means to live the Gospel with joy.” Br. Maikel mentioned “anonymous saints who have accompanied me on my journey,” such as youth groups and the immigrants he served in El Paso, “in whom I saw reflected the face of Christ, poor and humble.”