Bishop Joseph M. Siegel ordained Deacons Martin Estrada, Luke Hassler, Juan Ramirez, and Andrew Thomas to the priesthood on May 25th at St. Philip Parish in Posey County.
This particular ordination Mass was historic due to numerous circumstances.
The Mass was only the sixth time in the history of the Diocese of Evansville in which four different men were ordained to the priesthood.
The Mass also represented the first ordination in 55 years, with 1964 being the last occurrence.
This event also happens to be Bishop Siegel’s first priestly ordinations since he was made Bishop of Evansville back in 2017.
Over 800 people attended the Mass, including more than 50 priests. Father Denis Robinson, President Rector-Benedictine of St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology was in attendance, as well as many retired and active priests of the diocese. Friends of the newly ordained were also in attendance to show their love and support.
During the Mass, Bishop Joseph M. Siegel took the time to explain to the newly ordained that the Lord will not judge them or their ministries by their accomplishments. Rather, the newly ordained would be judged by their ability to share the love of Christ with others through their celebration of the sacraments, preachings, teachings, and the pastoral leadership they show.
Bishop Siegel added that these four individuals must be ready to follow the footsteps of Jesus the Good Shepherd by offering their lives and service to their people.
