Event

Ordination to the Diaconate of Stuart Lake, John Mortimer & Ryan Suares

The Diocese of Wollongong warmly invites you to celebrate the ordination to the permanent diaconate of Stuart Lake, John Mortimer and Ryan Suares, to be conferred by Bishop Brian Mascord.

All concelebrating clergy are to bring their own white vestments.

Light refreshments immediately to follow at the Fraternity Club.

Please RSVP by 20 February 2026
RSVP

“Courage! It is I! Do not be afraid.” (Matt 14:27)

The words of Christ, “Courage! It is I! Do not be afraid,” speak directly to the heart of vocation. They echo the call these men have discerned and now answer with trust, faith and generosity, stepping forward in service to God and his Church.

The diaconate is a vital ministry within the life of the Church, rooted in the example of Christ the servant. Through the Sacrament of Holy Orders, deacons are called to serve the People of God through the proclamation of the Gospel, assistance at the altar, and works of charity and pastoral care. Their ministry is one of humility, availability and faithful witness to Christ in the world.

During the ordination rite, the Bishop will invoke the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands, consecrating these men for service to the diocese and the wider Church. It is a moment of profound grace for the ordinands and for the whole diocesan community they will serve.

All are warmly encouraged to attend and join in prayer and thanksgiving on this significant occasion.

If you have any questions please contact [email protected] / 02 4222 2400.

Prayer for the ordinandii

As Stuart, John and Ryan enter these final days of preparation, we keep them close in prayer, trusting in the Holy Spirit’s guidance as they draw near to their ordination.

Heavenly Father,
we give you thanks for the gift of vocation
and for the call you have placed on the lives of
Stuart, John and Ryan.

As they prepare to be ordained to the diaconate,
fill them with courage and trust in your presence.
Strengthen them to serve with humility, fidelity and love,
after the example of your Son, who came not to be served but to serve.

Through the intercession of St Stephen,
the first deacon and martyr of the Church,
may they be faithful ministers of your Word,
generous servants of your altar,
and compassionate witnesses of charity in the world.

Keep them steadfast in prayer,
gentle in service,
and courageous in faith,
that in all things they may glorify you
and build up your Church.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.