Ordination of Fr. Brandon Feikles and Fr. Michael Scanga: a call answered
By Allison Mosier05/27/2025
On the evening of May 23, 2025, the Diocese of Erie gathered in joyful reverence to celebrate a moment that will echo through its parishes for years to come. At Saint Peter Cathedral, filled to capacity with faithful from across the 13 counties, Deacons Brandon Feikles and Michael Scanga were ordained to the priesthood by the Most Reverend Lawrence T. Persico, JCL, Bishop of Erie. Also present for this sacred occasion was the Most Reverend Edward Lohse, Bishop of Kalamazoo, who returned to his home diocese to witness this extraordinary moment of grace.
Fr. Brandon and Fr. Michael, both formed through years of study, discernment and pastoral service—at Gannon University, Saint Mark Seminary and Saint Vincent Seminary—stood not only as individuals answering God’s call, but as representatives of what it means to live a life rooted in faith, humility and mission. Their formation shaped them intellectually and spiritually, preparing them for the sacred duty of shepherding souls.
In his homily, Bishop Persico reminded all present that the priesthood is not a career, but a vocation—“a lifelong offering of self for the sake of others.” He gave thanks to God for the unique calling placed in their hearts, and to the countless people—family, friends, mentors—who helped Fr. Brandon and Fr. Michael discern and respond with courage.
“We are all called to embrace the loving example of Jesus, at the heart of which is a selfless spirit rooted in service,” Bishop Persico said. “Your ordination to the priesthood will place an even greater expectation upon you to serve.”
Drawing from the Scriptures of the day, he reflected on Moses’ plea in the wilderness, the human frailty of the disciples, and the prayer of Jesus in the Gospel of John. Each passage, he said, “reveals the recognition that on our own, we are ill-equipped and inadequate to do the work of God... yet, through Baptism and our continued response to God’s call, we are all entrusted with the promise of God’s abiding presence.”
He continued: “The Spirit of God will work mightily in and through you in spite of your own human frailties and in ways far beyond your imagining... Give back to God, in gratitude for all that you have received, the gift of yourself.”
The Rite of Ordination unfolded in sacred silence and solemn beauty—the laying on of hands, the prayer of ordination, the anointing with chrism and the investiture with stole and chasuble. The congregation, in a unified voice, responded “Thanks be to God!” as applause erupted, echoing through the cathedral’s ancient stone.
Their hands, now consecrated with oil, are hands that will bless, forgive, baptize, anoint and lift the chalice. Their voices will now echo the words of Christ in every Mass: “This is my body… this is my blood.” Their presence among the People of God will bring comfort in sorrow, strength in weakness and joy in the sacraments.
After the final hymn, “O God, Beyond All Praising,” a light reception at Cathedral Preparatory School’s Salata Technology and Innovation Center welcomed family, friends and parishioners—each with a story, a prayer or a tear to share. There was laughter, there were embraces and there was a deep sense of unity. It was a reminder that the journey to priesthood is not made alone. It is nurtured by parishes, seminary faculty, mentors, Serra Club members, Knights of Columbus, family and a diocese committed to cultivating vocations.
In a world so often starved for meaning, May 23 became a radiant sign of hope. Fr. Brandon and Fr. Michael will soon begin their ministry in parishes where their presence will inspire new faith, encourage vocations and offer the love of Christ to all they encounter. Their sacred “yes” is not the end of a journey—but the beautiful beginning of one.
Let us continue to pray for them, that their priesthood be fruitful, joyful and deeply rooted in the heart of Christ. As Bishop Persico affirmed with confidence and love: “God who has begun the good work in you will bring it to fulfillment.”
Visit our online photo album to view photos from the evening.
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