Diaconate Ordination Brings the Community Together

When Br. Bruno Mello, O.S.B., took the next step on the path to priesthood on May 7, much of the St. Benedict’s Prep community was present for the occasion. The diaconate ordination was held in the HAB gym at Br. Bruno’s request. For men preparing for ordination to the priesthood, the diaconate is one of the three degrees of the Sacrament of Holy Orders. “It’s a significant milestone,” said Br. Bruno. “But also, not well understood. This was a way for the community to witness it together and celebrate the Lord that is in
our midst.” 

Digital Content Manager Raquel Cruz said holding the ordination and Mass at a time and location where many could attend was a gift to the community. “Seeing someone so young devote their life [to Newark Abbey] and be so strong in their conviction was special. We weren’t here to see Fr. Ed, Fr. Phil or the other monks start their journeys. It’s a great sign for the kids and everyone who works at St. Benedict’s.” 

We weren’t here to see Fr. Ed, Fr. Phil or the other monks start their journeys. It’s a great sign for the kids and everyone who works at St. Benedict’s.” 

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Deacons are ordained to a service of ministry, word and liturgy. Br. Bruno is assigned to St. Mary’s Church, where he assists in liturgical worship and even delivered his first homily to the parish in June. He continues to work at the Pierre Toussaint Food Pantry, a ministry he looks forward to all week. “We serve about 250 to 300 families a week. I’ve met so many people. To serve them and offer them food is a great privilege.” 

Br. Bruno will also teach two sections of philosophy, “Metaphysics” and “Aesthetics and Poetics,” during Summer Phase. He’ll return to Seton Hall University for his final year of seminar studies this fall. “I’m trying to do as much as I can, both attending to the community and the immediacy of finishing my degrees,” he said. Br. Bruno arrived at The Hive in 2017 as a Benedictine volunteer. His ordination to the priesthood is expected to take place in the spring or summer of 2026.