The weeks leading up to June 2 are a busy, yet prayerful time for the four men who will be ordained to the priesthood by Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M. Part of the men’s preparation includes attending a five-day Ordinandi Canonical Retreat that Bishop O’Connell is hosting and facilitating May 21-25 in St. Joseph by the Sea Retreat Center, South Mantoloking.
Each day, the Bishop presents talks to the men during which he addresses topics that are relevant in the lives and ministries of newly ordained priests. Diocesan officials also gave presentations on various topics such as finance, human resources and benefits.
The four men to be ordained are Rev. Messrs. Christopher Dayton, Michael G. DeSaye, James Smith, and Rev., Brother Nicholas Dolan. Also in attendance at the retreat were Msgr. Thomas Mullelly, diocesan episcopal vicar for clergy and consecrated life and director of seminarians, and Father Michael Wallack, episcopal secretary to Bishop O’Connell and director of vocations.
Photo Gallery: Ordinandi Canonical Retreat