By CatholicPhilly Staff • Posted January 20, 2026

See scenes from Jan. 11 when Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez ordained Rev. Mr. Michael Gokie as a Transitional Deacon for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. Ordination to the Transitional Diaconate is one of the final steps prior to Ordination to the Priesthood. Transitional Deacons serve in parishes as they complete their studies along with other elements of the program of priestly formation. (Photos by Sarah Webb)