Deacons Thomas Jack, Michael Merritt, Juan Benitez and Anthony Amato were ordained by Bishop Salvatore R. Matano during a May 28 ordination Mass at Rochester’s Sacred Heart Cathedral. Deacons Merritt, Benitez and Amato became transitional deacons, on the way to the diocesan priesthood, while Deacon Jack was ordained a permanent deacon.
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Deacon Anthony Amato pledges his obedience to Bishop Matano.
Deacon Michael Merritt (right) pledges his obedience to Bishop Matano.
The new deacons prostrate themselves during the Mass.
Bishop Matano lays his hands on the head of Deacon Anthony Amato during the Mass.
Bishop Matano lays his hands on the head of Deacon Juan Benitez during the Mass.
Deacon Thomas Jack prays during the Mass.
Deacons Michael Merritt (from left), Juan Benitez and Anthony Amato kneel to pray during the Mass.
Deacon Anthony Amato hugs Father Dennis Bonsignore after Father Bonsignore helped him vest.
Bishop Matano congratulates Deacon Thomas Jack.
Deacon Juan Benitez is greeted by friends after the ordination Mass.
Deacon William Coffey (left) and other deacons line up to congratulate the newly ordained men.
