The transitional deacons begin to process into the cathedral at the start of Mass May 16.

During the rite, priests of the archdiocese lay their hands and pray over the newly ordained priests.

Father Alexander Gibbs receives the chalice and paten, with which he will consecrate the holy Eucharist, from Archbishop Chaput.

The archbishop exchanges a sign of peace with Father Steven Kiernan.

Archbishop Chaput celebrates the Liturgy of the Eucharist with the newly ordained priests concelebrating, May 16 at the Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul.

Father Daniel Arechabala exchanges the sign of peace with Archbishop Chaput during the ordination liturgy. (Sarah Webb)

Archbishop Charles Chaput anoints the hands of Father Addisalem Mekonnen with holy oil during the ordination rite. (Photo by Sarah Webb)

Father Joseph Zaleski receives the chalice and paten.

The seven members of the priesthood ordination class of 2015.

The men lie prostrate on the floor as the litany of saints is prayed by all in the cathedral, asking God’s blessing in the name of all the holy men and women of history.

Archbishop Chaput lays hands on Father Kevin Mulligan, ordaining him a priest for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. (Sarah Webb)

The archbishop and Father Addisalem Mekonnen exchange a sign of peace.