Carmelites Friars – North of American Province of St. Elias in allegiance to Jesus Christ
Washington, D.C., May 2, 2026 — The Carmelite community gathered in profound joy and thanksgiving for the ordination to the diaconate of Reverend Brother Joseph Tuan Bui, O.Carm., and Reverend Brother John Truc Nguyen, O.Carm. The sacred celebration took place at the Crypt Church of the magnificent Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, where the Eucharistic liturgy began at 9:30 a.m.
The celebration brought together a vibrant assembly of Carmelite friars, diocesan clergy, religious sisters and brothers, family members, friends, and members of the faithful from many different communities. Their presence reflected the beauty of the Church as one family united in prayer, fraternity, and gratitude to God for the gift of vocations.
The principal celebrant and ordaining bishop was Bishop Evelio Manjivar-Ayala, whose warm pastoral presence gave special significance to the occasion. In his homily, Bishop Manjivar-Ayala invited the ordinands to contemplate the example of Christ the Servant, who came not to be served but to serve. He reminded them that the diaconate is not merely a role or title, but a sacred calling to embody humility, compassion, charity, and faithful dedication to the People of God.
Addressing the ordinands directly, the bishop encouraged them to become living witnesses of the Gospel through prayer, simplicity of life, and attentive service to the poor and marginalized. He emphasized that the ministry of the deacon must always flow from a deep personal relationship with Christ and from a heart shaped by love for the Church.
During the solemn rite of ordination, Reverend Brother Joseph Tuan Bui, O.Carm., originally from Da Lat, Vietnam, and Reverend Brother John Truc Nguyen, O.Carm., born in Saigon, Vietnam, publicly expressed their commitment to the Church and their obedience to their religious superiors. Both friars belong to the Commissariat of St. Joseph, Vietnam. Through the ancient and sacred gesture of the laying on of hands and the prayer of consecration, they were ordained deacons in the Church. The congregation watched with reverence and emotion as the newly ordained received the stole and dalmatic, visible signs of their ministry of service.
Their ordination marks an important milestone in their Carmelite journey, deepening their commitment to serve Christ and His Church through the proclamation of the Gospel, assistance at the altar, and works of charity. Rooted in the rich spirituality of the Order of the Brothers of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel, the new deacons are called to unite contemplation and apostolic service in the spirit of the Prophet Elijah and the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Although the families of Deacons Joseph and John were unable to travel from Vietnam to attend the celebration in person, they remained spiritually close through prayer, love, and thanksgiving. Their absence was deeply felt, yet the sense of communion transcended geographical distance. Messages of support and prayers from relatives, friends, and Carmelite communities in Vietnam added a heartfelt and emotional dimension to the celebration.
The liturgy itself was marked by great solemnity and spiritual beauty. Sacred music, prayerful participation, and the presence of the Carmelite community created an atmosphere of deep reverence and joy. Many attendees expressed gratitude for witnessing such a meaningful moment in the life of the Church and the Carmelite Order.
Following the Mass, the newly ordained deacons greeted the faithful with joyful smiles and grateful hearts. Friends and fellow religious offered congratulations, prayers, and words of encouragement as Deacons Joseph and John begin this new chapter of ministry.
As the Church rejoices in this blessed occasion, prayers continue for the newly ordained that they may remain faithful servants of Christ throughout their lives. May Deacons Joseph Tuan Bui, O.Carm., and John Truc Nguyen, O.Carm., be strengthened by God’s grace to serve with humility, wisdom, and generous hearts, always attentive to the needs of God’s people and steadfast in the Carmelite charism of prayer, fraternity, and service.
