By Barb Arland-Fye
DAVENPORT – Bishop Martin Amos declared: “We choose Jacob Michael Greiner, our brother, for the Order of the Priesthood.” Applause thundered throughout Sacred Heart Cathedral as the priest-elect stood before the congregation, smiling.
Two busloads of well-wishers – from Keota and Oskaloosa — were among several-hundred people including family, friends, clergy and lay people witnessing the Keota native’s ordination to the priesthood May 25.
Bishop Amos, in his homily, reflected on promises to be made concerning six facets of priestly life and ministry. Speaking directly to the soon-to-be priest, Bishop Amos said:
• “The first facet addresses whether you will be a fellow worker with me in caring for God’s people.” After explaining the centrality of a bishop’s role in the Church, Bishop Amos noted, “There is absolutely no way one person could fulfill the expectations of bishop … your ministry will become an extension of my ministry; and so you will be given the faculties of the diocese to minister in my name.”
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