Read Pastoral Reflection on Fiducia Supplicans for the Priests, Deacons, and Faithful of the Archdiocese of Las Vegas by Archbishop George Leo Thomas, Ph.D.
Read MoreTwo New Priests Ordained for Archdiocese
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Las Vegas (May 27, 2024) — Fr. "AJ" Sales and Fr. Michael Williams were Ordained to the Priesthood on May 25th at Guardian Angel Cathedral by Archbishop George Leo Thomas, Ph.D., for the Archdiocese of Las Vegas.
Fr. "AJ" Joseph Anthony Sales recently completed his studies at Mundelein Seminary in Chicago, Illinois. A native of New York, he was raised in Las Vegas by his parents, Sennen and Bessie, alongside his sister Cathy, who is engaged in charitable work at Catholic Charities. His formative years in youth ministry served as a catalyst for his vocational journey, profoundly influenced by his devotion to the Blessed Mother. His interests span from his shih tzu, Porkchop, to music, weightlifting, and exploring culinary delights in Las Vegas. He humbly requests prayers not only for himself but also for his fellow seminarians, reciprocating such prayers for others.
Fr. Michael Williams hails from Ely, Nevada, born to Eric and Veronica Williams. He was nurtured in a devout household alongside three siblings, within the embrace of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church community. Encouraged by his pastor at the tender age of 8, he commenced discerning a divine calling to the Priesthood. A transformative pilgrimage to Medjugorje after his Confirmation significantly deepened his spiritual odyssey, particularly under the guidance of the Blessed Mother. Affirmed through a profound encounter with a Benedictine Cross, he embarked on a seminary education journey characterized by profound spiritual growth. In his leisure pursuits, he finds solace in automotive craftsmanship and the serene art of fly fishing for trout upon the lake.
The Rite of Ordination unfolded with the invocation of each candidate's name, who were then presented to Archbishop Thomas. Following this presentation, Archbishop Thomas delivered the Homily, reflecting upon the rich symbolism in the Ordination Rite. Subsequently, the candidates pledged their solemn promises to Archbishop Thomas, affirming their respect and obedience to him and his successors. Following these pledges, the deacons reverently prostrated themselves before the altar, as the Litany of the Saints reverberated throughout the Cathedral.
The Ordination Rite advanced with the Laying on of Hands by Archbishop Thomas, accompanied by the concelebrating priests. Following this sacred act, and the accompanying Prayer of Ordination, the candidates were vested with the Priestly stole and Chasuble. A culminating moment within the Ordination Rite entailed the anointing of their hands with sacred Chrism oil—an oil sanctified during the annual Chrism Mass.
Following the Rite of Ordination, the Mass moved into the Liturgy of the Eucharist.
Fr. "AJ" Sales celebrated his first Mass at Holy Spirit Catholic Church during the Vigil Mass on Saturday, May 25th. Conversely, Fr. Michael Williams held his first Mass at Christ the King Catholic Church on Sunday, May 26th.
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Ordination Mass Photos
