On June 29, 2024, the Diocese of Norwich celebrated the ordination of three young men to the priesthood, marking a joyous event for the community.
“You bring with you many gifts granted to you by God in His goodness,” said The Most Rev. Michael R. Cote, Bishop of Norwich, to deacons Eric Carl Hosmer, Julian Felipe Cuervo-Lozada, and Alexander James Pandolfe during his homily. “Put them to good use, always, for the glory of God and the good of His holy people.”
Bishop Cote expressed deep appreciation to Mount Saint Mary’s seminary faculty and Reverend Greg Galvin and Reverend Kevin Reilly, past and present directors of vocations for the diocese.
The Rite of Ordination began with Father Reilly presenting the candidates and asking the bishop to ordain them, declaring them worthy. The congregation stood and applauded in consent. During the Litany of Supplication, the elect prostrated before the altar as the saints' intercession was invoked for God's grace. Bishop Cote laid his hands on each elect’s head, conferring the sacrament of Holy Orders, followed by the prayer of ordination. The new priests were then vested in the stole and chasuble, symbolizing their liturgical ministry. The rite concluded with the Anointing of Hands, Handing over of the Bread and Wine, and the fraternal Kiss of Peace.
Bishop Cote announced the new priests' assignments, all as parochial vicars:
- Reverend Eric Hosmer to parochial vicar, St. Brendan the Navigator Parish, New London.
- Reverend Alex Pandolfe to parochial vicar, Blessed Sacrament Parish, Rockville and Tolland.
- Reverend Julio Cuervo-Lozada to parochial vicar, Cathedral of St. Patrick.
Bishop Cote shared about his first assignment in 1975, describing it as a blessed experience. “I had a very, very great pastor. He was a good administrator but had a very gentle heart. He taught me an awful lot. I think your first assignments are very important, and I hope you will find these assignments blessed for you.”
The new priests imparted their first blessings on the bishop and their families before greeting congregants and offering blessings at a reception in the cathedral hall.
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View the Video of the Ordination Below
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