Once inside the cathedral, the three ordinands took their seats in front of the first pew, which was occupied by each of their parents. Following the Gospel reading, Bishop Raica began his homily. Speaking directly to the three, he noted: “It is fitting to give immense gratitude to Almighty God for these three men who have diligently and intentionally prepared themselves through the formation process to offer themselves for the very mission of Christ and His Gospel in Central and Northern Alabama. It is the result of listening intently to God’s Word, the very Gospel that we proclaim, taking hold of their hearts and configuring them into living witnesses of Christ.”

As the bishop continued, he reflected on the men’s seminary preparation and resulting “readiness” to minister to God’s people in persona Christi. He also touched on elements of priesthood, including proclaiming the Word of God, offering the sacraments, and shepherding the faithful. Bishop Raica concluded his remarks by sharing a profound insight into priesthood. “See in those you serve the Bride of Christ,” he instructed. “After all, you are three bridegrooms filled with the joy of any bridegroom. Guard her jealously. This Bride is as radiant as the brides who walk down the aisle for their marriage. She will love you with all her heart, but as you may know, she can be a demanding and unrelenting Bride. At times, she will seem harsh and unbending to your will. At other times, she will console you in ways you have never imagined. Indeed, she will give her life for you, and demand that you give your life for her. Yes, it is a relationship that is for better for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health. For that reason, you must love her every single day and never give up on her. For that reason, we labor in the Lord’s vineyard together in fraternal and priestly collaboration. In years to come, you will look back and see that she is even more radiant than the day of your ordination. My brothers, you are embarking on a journey that is full of hope and full of inexpressible joy.”

With the conclusion of the homily, the deacons rose and knelt before the bishop, promising their obedience. The Litany of the Saints was then sung as the three laid prostrate. Afterward, Bishop Raica laid his hands on each deacon’s head, followed by all the priests present. Removing his miter, the bishop then outstretched his hands and prayed the prayer of ordination. The newly ordained rose and were vested: Father Gardiner by Father John McDonald, Father Stepnowski by Father Max Gallegos, and Father Vickery by Father Jonathan Howell. The new priests again knelt before Bishop Raica as their hands were anointed with sacred chrism. The bishop also presented each with a paten and chalice, charging them to imitate the Lord. The last part of the Rite of Ordination saw Bishop Raica and the priests present exchange the fraternal kiss of peace with the new priests.

At the end of Mass, the bishop announced the assignment for the newly ordained, which were effective July 1. Father Gardiner was assigned as parochial vicar of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Montevallo. Father Stepnowski was assigned to St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Birmingham as parochial vicar, and Father Vickery was assigned to Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church in Homewood as parochial vicar.