Two weeks ago, I shared my humble privilege to serve as the archdeacon and present to the bishop Deacon Erick who would be ordained a married Catholic priest in the Polish National Catholic tradition. The following article was published in the Las Vegas Hispanic newspaper about this historic ordination.
“In an emotional religious ceremony held at the headquarters of the Divine Mercy parish, on Wednesday, June 7, 2023, Erick Heredia's ordination as a Priest was carried out.
Before numerous representatives of the clergy, led by the bishop of the Diocese of Buffalo-Pittsburgh, John Mack, Erick Heredia became pastor of the Polish National Catholic Church (PNCC).
Father Erick will be exercising his pastoral ministry at Divine Mercy Polish National Catholic Church located at 3844 Meadows Lane, in the vicinity of The Meadows shopping center.
Bishop John Mack asked him during the sermon to "Live a life that is worthy of the calling you have received. Walk humbly in love and charity. Embrace with mercy the faithful of the church. And in your home, share the spirit of God that unites and liberates you."
For his part, Pablo Castro, as a proud native of Morales, Mexico, expressed that, "The ordination of Father Erick is a transcendental, historic moment, not only for the people of Morelos, but for the entire Hispanic community to have a new priest. People will have a new religious ally."
Many people agree that we are living in difficult times; violence, drugs and lack of moral values lead us into a destructive spiral. "In this church, they have programs that seek to rescue young people from the clutches of alcohol and drugs, not only is it coming to Mass, but the faithful have the opportunity to take advantage of the mental health services they have here," he stated.
On the other hand, Guadalupe Loyo Malabar, one of those who attended the ordination ceremony, commented that, "As a mother, the pastoral guidance of Father Erick will make us unite under the spiritual mantle of the priest; for parents and children who take the wrong path, it will be a great refuge of assistance. We are proud that we have another Hispanic priest in Las Vegas.”
As the Vocation Director and friend to Fr. Erick, the following photo shows the moment I laid hands on my brother priest and more special, when Fr. Eric offered me his priestly blessing. What is even more touching is the photo when he blesses his mom and she kisses her son's hands.
Lord, I pray for all my Sonshine Friends and especially pray that more laborers will answer the call to serve as deacons and priests. Yes, the laborers are few but i believed there are many who wish to come and serve. If you feel you haver a vocation, call or email me anytime.
