(RVA News): The Catholic Diocese of Changzhi in Shanxi Province, China, ordained Peter Zhang Haoran, John Wang Jin, and Peter Liu Xiaoheng to the diaconate on February 1, at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. The ordination Mass was presided over by Bishop Ding Lingbin of and concelebrated by 11 priests of the diocese.
Several religious brothers and sisters, family members and friends of the ordinands, and more than 500 faithful gathered to witness the solemn celebration.
In his homily, Bishop Ding reflected on the origins of the diaconate in the early Church and highlighted its enduring mission. He stressed that deacons are not only servants of the Church but also proclaimers of the faith and guides of the faithful.
Assisting the bishop and the presbyterate, deacons share responsibility in the ministry of the Word, the liturgy, and works of charity, becoming servants to all.
The bishop reminded the deacons that, strengthened by the grace of the Holy Spirit, they are called to serve at the altar, proclaim the gospel, prepare the gifts, and distribute the Body and Blood of the Lord.
He exhorted them to remain firmly rooted in faith, to live with humility, and to manifest Christ’s love through preaching and service. He encouraged them to be reliable collaborators of the clergy and close companions to the people entrusted to their care.
Bishop Ding also appealed to the faithful to continue supporting vocations in the diocese, urging constant prayer for priests, deacons, and future vocations so that the Church may never lack shepherds to guide and care for the community.
It is a commitment to nurturing vocations and living the gospel through service and charity.
