One priest, five transitional deacons ordained

DUBUQUE — The Archdiocese of Dubuque recently celebrated the ordinations of one priest and five transitional deacons. Father Aaron Junge received the sacrament of Holy Orders May 28 at St. Raphael Cathedral. He has been assigned to serve as associate pastor at Holy Spirit Parish in Dubuque and will begin his ministry there later this summer. The evening before, May 27, Dennis Conway, Ralph Davis, Kevin Earleywine, Andrew Marr and Austin Wilker were also ordained as transitional deacons at the cathedral. They will undergo another year of education and formation before entering the priesthood in 2017.

Photos: All photos are by Deacon James Pfaffly. The main photo shows Father Junge prostrate on the floor  in front of the altar at the cathedral during the ordination rite. His prostration symbolizes his unworthiness for the office to be assumed and his dependence upon God and the prayers of the entire Christian community to be successful in his new ministry.

Archbishop Jackels lays his hands on Father Junge, followed by other priests of the archdiocese. In laying hands, the priests invoke the Holy Spirit to come upon the new priest:

Archbishop Jackels (left) with Father Aaron Junge after the ordination rite is completed:

Archbishop Jackels with the five transitional deacons ordained May 27. (l to r) Deacons Ralph Davis, Kevin Earleywine, Dennis Conway, Andrew Marr, Austin Wilker: