By Clara Atallah
On May 16, 2026, six of our Jesuit brothers were ordained to the transitional diaconate, marking a significant milestone in their journey in the Society of Jesus. Among them was Jacky Joseph, SJ, from Haiti. The ordination took place at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Toronto and brought together Jesuits, family members, friends, clergy, and supporters from Canada and around the world to celebrate this joyous occasion.
The newly ordained deacons reflect the international character of the Society of Jesus and the rich diversity of the Jesuit scholastic community at Regis College:
- Bernard Adika, SJ (Eastern Africa Province)
- Jacky Joseph, SJ (Canada-Haiti Province)
- Gerald Myrthong, SJ (Kohima Province, India)
- Vincent Mpoza, SJ (Eastern Africa Province)
- Timothy Perron, SJ (USA Midwest Province)
- Darimio Susngi, SJ (Kohima Province, India)
In the Jesuit tradition, scholastics are ordained to the transitional diaconate as part of their preparation for priesthood. The word “deacon” comes from the Greek diakonia, meaning “service,” highlighting the call to humble ministry at the heart of this vocation.
As deacons, these Jesuits are now entrusted with important ministries in the life of the Church, including proclaiming the Gospel, assisting at the altar, preaching, baptizing and accompanying the faithful in pastoral service. In the Jesuits of Canada Province, priestly ordination typically follows about a year after diaconate ordination.
This year’s celebration was marked by joy, gratitude and a strong sense of community. The Mass was presided over by the Most Reverend John Boissonneau, Auxiliary Bishop of Toronto, who encouraged the ordinands to become faithful models of loving service in the Church and in the world.
The Jesuits of Canada extend their heartfelt gratitude to Bishop Boissonneau for presiding at the liturgy on short notice after Archbishop Terrence Prendergast, SJ, was unable to attend due to scheduled chemotherapy treatments. We continue to keep Archbishop Prendergast in our prayers for strength, healing and recovery.
Among those present were Provincial Fr. Jeffrey S. Burwell, SJ; Fr. Michael Kolarcik, SJ, rector of the Regis Jesuit Community; numerous Jesuits, diocesan clergy, religious men and women; and many lay partners and supporters. Following the Mass, guests gathered for a festive luncheon at the parish garden, where the celebration continued with music, fellowship and an African dance performed in honour of the occasion.
The ordination of new deacons is always a moment of grace for the Church and the Society of Jesus — a reminder of God’s continuing call and the generous response of those who dedicate their lives to the service of faith and the care of God’s people.
Please join us in praying for these six Jesuits as they begin this new stage of ministry, that all they do may be for the greater glory of God and in loving service to others.
If you feel called to Jesuit life, visit beajesuit.org.
