Among his family and friends, Vincent Charles was ordained a permanent deacon Nov. 13 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Isanti by Bishop Donald Kettler.
“I’m just so humbled to have this opportunity and privilege to serve in this way,” Deacon Charles said in a story in the November issue of The Central Minnesota Catholic. “I will always try to lead a ministry that bears fruit. I am certain that I will not always have the answers or be fully prepared for each situation, but I firmly believe that God is beside me and will help provide what I need to be a minister in his Church.”
Deacon Vince joins 82 active and retired permanent deacons in the diocese. There are currently 19 men in diaconate formation.
Karen and Cassie Charles sing the closing song.
Newly ordained Deacon Vincent Charles assists Bishop Kettler during the Mass.
Deacon Vincent Charles hugs his daughter Cassie during the exchange of peace.
The Rite of Ordination concludes with the exchange of peace. Here, Deacon Vincent Charles is congratulated by Deacon Gene Kramer and Deacon Ernie Kociemba, left, director of the diaconate office for the Diocese of St. Cloud.
During the Rite of Ordination, Vincent Charles kneels before Bishop Donald Kettler to receive the Book of the Gospels. Master of ceremonies Father Robert Rolfes and Leo Wehseler assist.
Newly ordained Deacon Vincent Charles is vested by his wife, Karen, and Father Don Wagner, pastor of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish.
The bishop lays his hands upon the candidate for the Order of the Diaconate for silent prayer, then extends his hands for the Prayer of Ordination.
Karen Charles, Vincent's wife, prays during the ordination Mass.
Those gathered pray during the Mass.
During the Rite of Ordination Vincent Charles kneels before Bishop Kettler, placing his hands between the bishop's hands, and promises obedience and respect to the bishop and his successors.
Vincent Charles prcesses in for the the ordination Mass.