Christian Galvan is one step closer to becoming a priest for the Diocese of St. Petersburg. On Saturday, April 2, 2022, Galvan and ten other seminarians from across the state of Florida were ordained as Transitional Deacons at St. Joan of Arc Parish in Boca Raton, by Bishop David L. Toups, of Beaumont, Texas.

“There was a particular joy in witnessing a priest who came from our Diocese, Bishop Toups, be the one to lead Christian into his ministry of service in the diaconate,” said Father Chuck Dornquast

Director of Vocations for the Diocese of St. Petersburg.

Deacon Galvan, a graduate of H.B. Plant High School in Tampa, has been a seminarian for our Diocese since 2016. He is currently attending St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach.

“As I continue in formation, I remain most grateful to the Lord for the gift of discerning the Priesthood of Jesus Christ and to the people of God for their continued prayers!” said Deacon Galvan, a parishioner of St. Stephen Catholic Church in Riverview.

Deacon Galvan will serve as a Transitional Deacon for one year and God willing, he will be ordained a priest by Bishop Gregory Parkes in May of 2023.

“Today the Good Shepherd asks you, the faithful eleven to follow Him by loving Him into the diaconate,” said Bishop Toups during his homily. “Trust Him to lead you and then you will be shepherds worthy of the name.”

The Ordination Mass, celebrated by Bishop Toups, was especially significant, as prior to being named Bishop of Beaumont, then Monsignor Toups, was the Rector of St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary. He ordained the men whose formation he directed during their earlier years in the seminary.

The newly ordained Deacons will be assigned to parishes where they will exercise their ministry in preparation to becoming priests in 2023. Among their duties, they will preach, perform baptisms, witness marriages, and preside over wakes and funerals.

“We are grateful for everyone’s prayers up this point. Please continue to pray for these men as they continue this final step into the priesthood,” said Father Dornquast.

To find more information about discerning the priesthood or religious life visit https://dospvocations.org/contact/.