Saying Yes and a Pilgrimage of Faith

Welcoming a New Deacon Into the Church’s Mission

(Photos Courtesy of St. Joseph’s Parish)

It was a wonderful occasion as we gathered together to celebrate the Diaconal Ordination of Brother Vishal, SS.CC., this past Saturday at St. Joseph’s Parish in Fairhaven. He is a member of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, whose priests have served St. Joseph Parish since its founding in 1905. We rejoiced with Deacon Vishal, with his family and friends, and with the entire community of St. Joseph’s as we gave thanks to God for the gift of his vocation and for the grace that brought him to that important day.

As I reflected on the Gospel, I was reminded of Jesus’ words to his disciples: “It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain.” These words spoke to the heart of every vocation. God’s call is not something we create for ourselves. It is a gift we receive with humility and trust. The grace of ordination received through the laying on of hands, gave Deacon Deacon VIshal a new mission, to proclaim Christ, to serve the Church, and to bring the love of God to His people.

The ministry of a deacon is very much a ministry of service. It is not a privilege for personal honor or recognition, but a call to give of oneself generously for the sake of others. A deacon is called to be a minister of the Gospel, not simply one who hears the Word, but one who lives it, proclaims it, and allows it to transform his life. As Saint Paul reminded us, “We do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord.” The focus must always remain on Christ, who came not to be served but to serve and to give His life for others.

Throughout my ministry as a bishop, I have had the great blessing of witnessing the generosity of men who have answered God’s call to serve. Since serving as an auxiliary bishop in Newark, I have had the privilege of ordaining 65 men to the Priesthood and many others to the Diaconate, including three in our Diocese just this year. Each Ordination has been a profound reminder that God continues to call people to serve His Church and that the mission of proclaiming the Gospel continues through the faithful “yes” of His disciples.

Reflections on the Enduring Impact of the National Eucharistic Congress

The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage’s visit to the Diocese of Fall River was a blessing for the faithful in our Diocese. I had the joy of joining hundreds of faithful from across the Diocese as we gathered in different locales for Masses, Eucharistic processions, Adoration, and moments of prayer and reflection.

This historic pilgrimage was a beautiful reminder that Christ continues to walk with His people, calling us to deeper faith, renewed hope, and a greater commitment to sharing His love with the world. I invite you to view photos from the Pilgrimage to revisit the many grace-filled moments we shared together during this special time of Eucharistic renewal.

Easton

New Bedford

Fall River

With Blessings,

+Bishop da Cunha