On Nov. 17, Bishop Gerald Barnes ordained Moon, along with three other men to the permanent diaconate at Sacred Heart Parish in Rancho Cucamonga.
The four new deacons are: Moon from St. Frances of Rome, Wildomar; David Hockwalt from St. Francis of Assisi, La Quinta; Octavio Echeverria from St. Joseph, Upland, and Gary Quinn from St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Ontario.
“It is the Lord that formed them, it is the Lord that gave them life and it is the Lord that calls them from the people of God… to serve the world,” Bishop Barnes said.
In his homily, Bishop Barnes shared with the faithful present that God works through the people. By God’s grace people are called to impact society and bring the love of God into the world, he said.
Bishop Barnes encouraged the new deacons to strengthen their faith and relationship with God during the Year of Faith and to lead others to Christ through their new ministry.
“I ask you to fall in love with your Lord once again,” Bishop Barnes said. “Be examples for the rest of us. Bring God’s love to his people.”
As deacons, the four men will now be able to proclaim the Gospel and preach at Mass, preside over baptisms, weddings and funerals, and oversee charitable works.
Echeverria, speaking for the other newly ordained, thanked local and diocesan communities for supporting and encouraging them during their years in formation.
“We know that many of our parishioners have been praying for us, we thank you very much,” Echeverria said. “We now begin our journey filled with hope love and encouragement.”
Before the final blessing Bishop Barnes announced that the new deacons will be assigned to their respective parishes. The deacon’s wives were also recognized during the Mass. Diocesan Vice Chancellor Maria Echeverria, Olivia Hockwalt, Martha Moon and Rhodora Quinn were presented with a bouquet of flowers in gratitude of their commitment to walk with their husbands in their new journey.