Vitaliy Kit Ordained to the Diaconate at St. John the Baptist Parish in Whippany

May 11, 2026

On Sunday, May 10, 2026, Borys Gudziak ordained Subdeacon Vitaliy Kit to the diaconate during the Divine Liturgy at St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church. The celebration brought together clergy, parishioners, family members, and guests for this joyful occasion in the life of the Church.

In his homily, Archbishop Gudziak reflected on the unique convergence of celebrations taking place that day: Mother’s Day, the Sunday of the Healing of the Man Born Blind, and the ordination of a new deacon for the Church community.

“What a beautiful bouquet, what a richness of feasts,” Archbishop Gudziak said. “The healing of the man born blind, a young man who entered this world without sight. There could hardly be a greater gift for a mother than to see her son healed. And today we also celebrate the diaconal ordination of our subdeacon Vitaliy, who has journeyed for many years toward this sacred day. He is 46 years old, and the Lord has patiently guided him to this holy moment.”

Reflecting on the Gospel account of the healing of the blind man, Archbishop Gudziak spoke about Christ as the Light of the world and the call for believers to truly see with the eyes of faith. He noted that while many who studied the Scriptures could not recognize Christ standing before them, the man who had been healed simply testified to the truth of what God had done in his life.

The Archbishop also emphasized the importance of vocations within married life, noting the blessing of welcoming a married deacon and his family into ministry in service to the Church community.

Present for the ordination were Deacon Vitaliy’s wife, son, mother, and mother-in-law, who joined in prayer and thanksgiving on this special day.

At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, the faithful offered congratulations and prayers for the newly ordained Deacon Vitaliy Kit. The celebration continued with a reception shared by clergy, family members, parishioners, and guests.