Admission to Candidacy: A Joyful Step Towards Diaconate and Priesthood

Bishop Mark Freeman admitted Simon Zakari to candidacy for Holy Orders during a 5:00 p.m. Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Ballarat on Sunday, September 27, 2026.

The rite marks a formal step in the candidates' preparation for the diaconate and priesthood within the Diocese of Ballarat. During his homily, Bishop Freeman told the candidates that their identity as disciples in communion with Jesus is more important than any future ministry. He encouraged them to live their vocation through faith, hope, and love, and to love the people of God in the diocese.

Bishop Emeritus Paul Bird attended the celebration.