Most Reverend Michael F. Burbidge ordained Brendan J. Buckler to the Transitional Diaconate in a Rite of Ordination of a Deacon celebrated at Saint Catherine of Siena Church in Wake Forest, June 5. Deacon Buckler recently completed his Third Year Theology at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary in Philadelphia.

Deacon Buckler is the son of Michael and Carol Buckler. Born in Atlanta, he graduated from Towson University in Maryland in 2001, with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Information Systems and a minor in Business Administration. During his last few years in college, he began discerning a call to the Priesthood, entering the Diocese of Raleigh formation program several years after graduation.

“Brendan has spent the past years in priestly formation and spiritual discernment,” Bishop Burbidge said in his homily. “With the great support of our Vocation Office and the Seminary, Brendan stands here with the skills and strategies he will need in ministry.”

Referring to a passage in one of Saint Paul’s letters to Timothy, Bishop Burbidge noted how Saint Paul told Timothy that he could only fulfill his duties “with the strength that comes from God.” The Bishop explained that the Gospel passage was one reflected upon by Diocesan seminarians, last week, at their annual retreat.

“Brendan, I believe the Lord wanted you to hear those words in a special way during the retreat as you prepared for your Ordination as Deacon,” Bishop Burbidge said. “With the utmost conviction, I say to you that the phrase ‘with the strength that comes from God’ must resonate in your heart each and every day.”

“You stand alone today as one to be ordained,” the Bishop said. “However, you are far from alone. Along with God’s abiding presence, you can depend on the support of your family and the special people God has placed in your life.”

Deacon Buckler’s summer assignment is at Saint Gabriel Church in Greenville until August 1. Following several weeks’ vacation, he will return to Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary for his final year of formation. He is scheduled to be ordained to the Priesthood in 2011.

Ordination Photogallery