Jesuits rejoice over the ordination of new deacons

With hearts full of gratitude to God, the Jesuit community around the world rejoiced on May 16, 2026, as six Jesuits were ordained to the diaconate in Toronto. 

The sacred ordination was conferred by Frank Cardinal Leo, who presided over the solemn liturgy and called the ordinands to a life of faithful service in the Church. 

Among the newly ordained deacons were Bernard Adika, SJ, and Vincent Mpoza, SJ, both members of the Jesuit Eastern Africa Province.

Their ordination is a source of great joy and thanksgiving for the Province, which celebrated this significant milestone in their vocation and commitment to the Society of Jesus. 

The diaconate marks an important step in the journey toward priesthood and a deeper dedication to the mission of Christ and His Church. Through the laying on of hands and the prayer of ordination, these Jesuits have been configured more closely to Christ the Servant. 

They are now entrusted in a particular way with proclaiming the Gospel, assisting at the altar, preaching the Word of God, and exercising ministries of charity, especially among the poor, the marginalized, and those most in need of hope and compassion. 

For Bernard Adika and Vincent Mpoza, this ordination also reflects the vibrant growth of Jesuit vocations in Eastern Africa and the continued commitment of the Province to form men who are ready to serve wherever the needs of the Church are greatest. 

Their generous response to God’s call stands as a testimony of faith, perseverance, and a desire to devote their lives to the service of the Gospel. 

As the Jesuit community celebrates this joyful occasion, Catholics and friends of the Society of Jesus are invited to join in prayer for these new deacons. 

May the Lord bless them with humility, wisdom, and apostolic zeal, and may their ministry bear abundant fruit as they dedicate themselves to serving Christ and His people with love and fidelity.

This ordination follows the four seminarians’, which  was celebrated on Saturday, May 9, 2026. Rev. Matteo Bertozzi, Rev. Moonjun Alphonse Choi, Rev. Matthew Steven Tuanquin Tulio and Rev. Victor Manuel Valdés, they will take up their new parish assignments in late June 2026.