Ordination to Diaconate and First Preaching Mass

It is with great joy that I write to you. The Lord, through prayerful discernment, spiritual direction, and the Chief Shepherd of the diocese, has called me to serve His Church through ordination to the diaconate. As I prepare to make the promise to celibacy for the sake of the kingdom, obedience to the Shepherds of the Church, and daily prayer for the people of God, I feel both tremendous unworthiness and bountiful gratitude.

God has been preparing my heart to say 'yes' to Him and His Church since He first called me to discern the priesthood back in high school. From this grace-filled moment of hearing Him say, "Gabriel, I want you to lead my Church," the Lord has slowly and faithfully brought about in me the configuration to His Son, Jesus Christ. This process continues and seminary remains a difficult journey, but it has taught the maxim of John the Baptist - He must increase; I must decrease.

On May 30, 2026 five of my brothers and I will lay before the altar and promise our lives to the Lord. I invite all of you to this solemn occasion and great joy for the diocese of Pittsburgh. Please see the invitations attached for details to this and my first preaching mass. Till then, I ask you for your continued prayers, and as always please know of my prayers for you.

Peace,
Deacon Candidate,
Gabriel Schoone