The restored diaconate is a recent phenomenon in Ireland, but its numbers are growing:
It was a historic day for the Diocese of Cork and Ross on Sunday as two new deacons are to be ordained at the North Cathedral.
Rev David Lane, who works as the manager of HSE addiction services in Cork and Kerry, and Rev Frank McKevitt, an accountant working in the city centre were ordained permanent deacons at the Cathedral.
The role was restored in Ireland in 2001 and has seen some 53 people ordained. A further 70 are in formation, with 22 of these ready for ordination this Autumn.
David and Frank are the first for Cork and Ross with another group set to begin the process in September 2018.
David, a father of three who is well known for his work with the HSE in Cork, studied for his certificate in theology in 2005 and enjoyed the experience so much that he entered the formation for deaconship afterwards.
Frank moved to Cork at the age of 11, studying at Coláiste Chríost Rí in Turner’s Cross. He is active in scouting in Cork, involved in the Lough Parish Unit, and is a founding member of the Turner’s Cross Parish Pastoral Assembly.
Congratulations, brothers, and welcome! Ad multos annos!
Photo: Mike English/Evening Echo
