An abundance of care, trust, and mentorship: Vincentians must offer these to the next generation of men graced by God with the divine call of vocation.  Their experiences, perspectives, and service will ensure the Vincentians thrive as we begin our next 400 years. In May 2024, the Vincentians of the Eastern Province, USA, ordained three men into our “Little Company” at the Basilica Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal in the Germantown section of Philadelphia.

On Saturday, May 11, the Most Reverend David M. O’Connell, CM, Bishop of Trenton, New Jersey, ordained new deacons Paul Pham, CM, and Juan Carlos Perez, CM. During the ceremony, the Provincial of Vietnam Fr. Francis Xavier, CM, vested Deacon Pham and Fr. Charlie Strollo, CM, vested Deacon Perez. During his homily, Bishop O’Connell emphasized that all deacons seek a deep and personal union with Christ and that Vincentian deacons uniquely apply that union to serving those on the margins of society as Saint Vincent de Paul did.

Deacon Pham felt called by God to the priesthood when he was in high school. This call grew stronger over time and remained with him even after he finished college. After working for a company for a few years, he decided to quit and respond to God’s call. His desire and willingness to follow this calling led him all the way from Vietnam to the United States.

Growing up, Deacon Pérez was deeply involved in the Church. From a young age, he felt a strong desire to serve the people of his hometown in Mexico. Now, this calling has only grown stronger.

Both of their journeys continue as they prepare for their priesthood ordination next year.

On May 18, Fr. José Alexander Palacios, CM, was ordained a priest at the Basilica Shrine.

The overwhelming support and unity of the crowd, consisting of confreres, family, friends, and parishioners, was evident as the Basilica Shrine had to open its loft to ensure all could be seated. There were many notable people in attendance. Among them was Padre Napoleón Castillo, the pastor of Parroquia San Pablo Apostol in Corinto, El Salvador. This is Fr. Palacois’ home parish, and further highlights the strong bonds of our community.

The Most Reverend Edward Deliman ordained Fr. Palacios. This is the first ordination he has performed in his many years of service to the Catholic Church. During his homily, Bishop Edward Deliman quoted Saint Vincent de Paul when describing the kind of priest he hopes Fr. Palacios to be: “… live in such a way that it may be said about you that we have seen a man who loves God and keeps the commandments.”

Fr. Palacios’ first Mass took place at St. Mary’s, his home parish in Roslyn, New York. His first assignment will be at St. Mary’s Parish in Greensboro, North Carolina.