News Summary
The Archdiocese of Detroit welcomes three new deacons, Joseph Jones, John Kovacik, and John Rybski, who will focus on community service during their ordination. Their commitment to serving the Church aligns with their diverse backgrounds, including experience in home renovation and community outreach. The ordination ceremony will be held on September 27, 2023, and will be live-streamed for those unable to attend in person. These men are eager to make a difference in their parish communities through hands-on service and support.
Exciting Times Ahead: New Deacons Ready to Serve in Detroit
This weekend marks an exciting chapter for the Archdiocese of Detroit as three devoted men are set to be ordained to the permanent diaconate. The ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, September 27, during a solemn Mass at the Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Detroit. The honorary Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger will lead this special ordination ceremony, celebrating the commitment of these individuals to serve both the Church and the community.
A Special Ceremony with a Personal Touch
Invitations for in-person attendance to the ordination Mass are limited, but don’t worry if you can’t be there. The wonderful news is that the entire ceremony will also be streamed live, providing an opportunity for everyone to join in spiritually from the comfort of their homes. Just visit aod.org/livemasses to catch it all unfold in real-time.
Meet the New Deacons
The three men being ordained are Joseph Jones, John Kovacik, and John Rybski, and each brings a unique background and story to their new role:
- Joseph Jones, 57, hails from Macomb and has a strong presence in the St. Augustine and St. Monica Parish. With 29 years of experience as a former Pentecostal Protestant minister, Jones aims to showcase a Christ-like image in his ministry. Moreover, he has a business background as the president and CEO of Visions Consultants, LLC.
- John Kovacik, 51, also from Macomb, felt the call to join the Church in 2012 and will be serving alongside his wife in their ministry. He currently works as a litigation manager at Sedgwick and has previously coordinated the RCIA program, helping to introduce Christian teachings to new converts.
- John Rybski, 64, grew up in Detroit and has a heart dedicated to serving the poor and marginalized. He enjoys home remodeling, blending his passion for restoration with his community service. Currently, Rybski is the general manager for Belfor Property Restoration and is active in various charitable organizations.
Focusing on Community Connections
These new deacons will each embark on their ministerial duties, centered around three key dimensions of the diaconate: service of charity, service of the word, and service of the liturgy at the altar. This means these men will be hands-on in their local parishes, connecting clergy and laity and attending to the needs of the broader community.
The Archdiocese highlights the importance of community service through the diaconate, ensuring these individuals are equipped with the proper training and education to fulfill their roles effectively. Each candidate has undergone comprehensive studies and a discernment process at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, underscoring their commitment to the ministry.
A Bright Future for Detroit’s Communities
As they take this significant step in their spiritual journeys, the newly ordained deacons are eager to make a difference in their respective parish communities. Their call to serve embodies the essence of Christian values and virtues, and they cannot wait to roll up their sleeves and contribute positively to the lives of others.
So, mark your calendars! This weekend promises to be a heartfelt celebration as these dedicated individuals are affirmed in their commitment to serve both the Church and the wonderful community of Detroit.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Additional Resources
- Detroit Catholic: Meet the Three Men to be Ordained Permanent Deacons for Detroit
- Detroit Catholic: Meet the Four Men to be Ordained Permanent Deacons for Detroit on Oct 5
- Detroit Catholic: Archbishop Ordains Four New Permanent Deacons
- Wikipedia: Permanent Deacon
- Google Search: Archdiocese of Detroit
