Bishop Lawrence J. Sullivan to Ordain Two Priests for the Archdiocese of Chicago on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Holy Name Cathedral
Chicago, (May 15, 2025) – Bishop Lawrence J. Sullivan, vicar general of the Archdiocese of Chicago, will ordain two priests for the Archdiocese of Chicago at 10 a.m., on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Holy Name Cathedral, 735 N. State St., Chicago. The ordination will be livestreamed on the archdiocese’s YouTube channel Catholic Chicago: https://youtube.com/live/GDwzAeQYKG0?feature=share
“In a time often marked by turmoil and suffering, priests offer hope, stability and a reminder of the eternal truth and love found in Christ,” said Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, archbishop of Chicago. “Their witness shows that a life rooted in faith and self-giving can transform not only individuals but entire communities.”
Men become priests through the Sacrament of Holy Orders, a celebration rich in symbolism and tradition. By ordination, priests receive a wide variety of responsibilities, particularly celebrating the Mass and granting forgiveness of sins through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Priests also preach the Gospel, and celebrate the Sacraments of Baptism, Matrimony, and Anointing of the Sick. Diocesan priests make promises of life-long celibacy, prayer for the People of God, and obedience to their bishop at their ordination. It is also expected that priests will lead a life of simplicity consistent with the people they serve.
Each newly ordained priest has completed at least six years of human, spiritual, academic and pastoral formation, which included an exhaustive study of philosophy, Catholic theology, the history of the Church, and pastoral practice. As part of their seminary education, future priests are assigned to work at parishes, schools, and hospitals as they develop their capacity to be shepherds of God’s people.
ORDINANDI
Cristian Garcia, 33, from Chicago, will have his first assignment at St. Clare of Assisi Parish in Rolling Meadows and Mount Prospect. His first Masses will be on Saturday, May 17 at 4:30 p.m., Our Lady of Czestochowa and Charity Parish, at St. Mary Czestochowa site, 3010 S. 48th Court, Cicero (in English, Spanish and Polish) and Sunday, May 18 at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Czestochowa and Charity Parish at the Our Lady of Charity site, 3600 S. 57th Court, Cicero (in English and Spanish).
Kevin Menard, 37, from Arlington Heights, will have his first assignment at St. John Cantius Parish in Chicago. He will celebrate his first Mass on Sunday, May 18 at 10:30 a.m. at St. John Cantius.
