.- Bishop Robert C. Evans will preside at the diaconate ordination of Francesco Francese and Christopher Murphy on Saturday, May 21.
Francesco Francese, son of Maria and Attilio Francese, was born in Westerly and attended elementary schools there before continuing his education at the University of Rhode Island. In 2007, he entered the Seminary of Our Lady of Providence and attended Providence College.
In 2008, Francese entered Mount Saint Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, Maryland, to continue his theological studies. In 2009, he attended the Institute for Priestly Formation at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. While a seminarian his assignments included Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Bristol, St. Brendan, East Providence and the chaplaincy program at Kent Hospital in Warwick.
“I look forward to my diaconate ordination as a servant who rejoices to serve both his master and those whom his master loves in a deeper way. I desire to be called a friend of Christ by following his commandments and being able to serve him as a deacon in his church,” said Francese.
Francese has been assigned to St. Joseph Parish in Woonsocket where he will serve as deacon for the summer.
Christopher Murphy, son of Judy and Gerard Murphy, was born in Riverside and attended the former St. Brendan School and Our Lady of Fatima High School, Warren. In 2006, he entered the Seminary of Our Lady of Providence and attended Providence College.
In 2008, Murphy entered St. John’s Seminary to continue his theological studies. In 2009, he attended the Institute for Priestly Formation at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. While a seminarian his assignments included St. Margaret in East Providence, St. Philip, Greenville and the chaplaincy program at Kent Hospital in Warwick.
“Similar to the time leading up to my first day of seminary, I am filled with a renewed sense of gratitude. I am grateful for God's friendship. I am grateful for my vocation and for the graces that have supported me along this journey. I have always wanted to serve. Now, with God's help, I am prepared to lay down my life in service of Christ and his church,” said Murphy.?
Murphy has been assigned to St. Pius X Parish in Westerly where he will serve as deacon for the summer.
Printed with permission from Rhode Island Catholic, newspaper for the Diocese of Providence, R.I.
