Carmelites Friars – North of American Province of St. Elias in allegiance to Jesus Christ
ORDINATION TO THE DIACONATE 2023
Washington, DC. – Rev. Brother Jonathan P. Steele, O.Carm., was ordained to the Diaconate on Saturday, 6 May 2023 in the Crypt Church of the Basilica of the National Shrine of Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC. He was ordained along with Rev. Ignacio Gonzales, OSB of St. Anselm’s Abbey. The ordaining prelate was Bishop Evelio Menjivar- Ayala, Auxiliary Bishop of Archdiocese of Washington. This occasion was the “first” of many. It was the first ordination of Bishop Menjivar-Ayala since he was ordained to the episcopacy. The Bishop gave a beautiful homily, encouraging those who were to be ordained to serve with joy and dedication.
The Mass was filled with many families, friends, relatives and fellow religious of both Father Ignacio and Brother Jonathan. Brother Jonathan’s immediate family was present from Trinidad, as well as close friends from Middletown and other areas.
On Sunday, 7 May 2023, a Mass of Thanksgiving was celebrated at Whitefriars Hall. Very Rev. Mario Esposito, O.Carm., Prior Provincial of the Carmelites of St. Elias Province celebrated and the newly ordained deacon, Bro. Jonathan, served as deacon and preached. Music was provided by Christopher Steele aided by Father Dimas, O.Carm.
The Mass was attended by many Carmelite brothers, his immediate family and friends, and the Lay Carmelite Community that Bro. Jonathan has served during his time at Whitefriars Hall. Following the Mass, there was a luncheon reception featuring Trinidadian food that was enjoyed by all.
Let us pray for Rev. Brother Jonathan as he begins his new ministry in the Church. Let us pray also for an increase in religious life and priesthood.
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