Diocese of Toledo Celebrates Ordination of Thirteen Permanent Deacons

Receive the Gospel of Christ whose herald you have become. Believe what you read, teach what you believe, and practice what you teach.

With these powerful words, the Diocese of Toledo rejoiced in the ordination of thirteen new permanent deacons on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Our Lady, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Cathedral.

The Most Reverend Daniel E. Thomas, Bishop of Toledo, ordained the men to serve the Church in the ministries of the Word, the Altar, and Charity in the example of Christ the Servant.

“We are deeply grateful to these men who, with generous hearts, have answered the Lord’s call to serve His Church,” Bishop Thomas said. “Please pray with me that their diaconal ministry may be humble, faithful, and fruitful.”

Our New Deacons

Michael S. Claar – Holy Angels, Sandusky

Donny R. Dix, Jr. – Holy Angels, Sandusky

Jason L. Endlish – St. Peter, Huron

Donald J. Fritsch, Sr. – Holy Trinity, Assumption

Christopher A. Harvey – St. Aloysius, Bowling Green

Michael R. Karhoff – St. John the Baptist, Glandorf

Carl J. Parran – St. Joseph, Toledo

Brian L. Rhodes – Our Lady of Hope, Attica

Benjamin M. Schroeder – St. Anthony of Padua, Columbus Grove

Christopher J. Solly – Most Blessed Sacrament, Toledo

Michael D. Ugljesa – Christ the King, Toledo

Brian J. Whitta – St. Michael the Archangel, Findlay

Gregory A. Zeller – St. Michael, Kalida


The ordination marks a joyful milestone for these men, their families, and their parish communities. As permanent deacons, they will proclaim the Gospel, assist at the altar, and serve in ministries of charity throughout the Diocese.

Please join us in offering prayers of thanksgiving and support for their ministry.

Posted September 15, 2025 at 1:20 pm