Greetings.

(Asking for a friend…yes, really).

A deacon I know is about to be ordained into the priesthood. He was married, and had a family, but his wife committed suicide.

After his children were grown he was admitted into formation for the Priesthood. He persevered, and is now anticipating ordination in the next several weeks. His chalice was gifted to him, and he subsequently decided to have his own wedding band welded into the base of the chalice (it’s also visible).

This seems…what? Off?

Struggling to connect the dots.

Thanks in advance.

Sarah

There is nothing wrong with remembering family members who have passed away. You might ask yourself WHY you're asking this question -- is it to rebuke him?

Nah. My conscience is clear, but thanks for checking; and I was being truthful regarding my status as a friend asking for a friend. But again, thanks for the sound check.

The concern is regarding the priest’s disposition, i.e., the status of a marriage that ends in suicide…renders a second priestly vocation as something that causes parishioners some…concern.

Seems fine to me. Why does your friend (and, I suppose, other parishioners) think this is problematic? It's probably his way of remembering his wife at the altar.

This man was widowed through mental illness. Had his wife died from cancer or heart disease or in a tragic lawnmower accident, would they hold the same "concern"? Not likely.

I am praying for this priest, he does not deserve this level of scrutiny from his parishioners