“Matthew, in being ordained a deacon, the grace of God will radically conform you to Christ the Servant, one who came not to be served, but to serve,” said Bishop Gruss during his homily message.

Bishop Gruss then referenced a note of thanks Deacon Matthew shared with the faithful of the Diocese.

“As you yourself have said, ‘My vocation is not meant for me, but is to be shared with all of you, God’s Holy People.’ May this truly be the way you live your life, knowing that the Lord will always be your example,” Bishop Gruss said.

In his note to the faithful, Deacon Matthew went on to say, “I ask you to continue to assist me by your prayers. Pray that I may become the saint God created me to be, and a true servant – a true diakonos – for all, especially for the poor, the marginalized, and the outcast.”

Bishop Gruss encouraged Deacon Matthew to seek to do the will of God in charity from the heart.

“Serve others with joy as you would serve the Lord,” he said.

Deacon Matthew will continue his preparation, completing his final year at Mundelein Seminary in Mundelein, Illinois, with hopes of being ordained a priest next year.