The 13 members of the diocese’s seventh permanent deacon class took a big step in their formation Dec. 15 when they received the ministry of reader, or lector, at St. Stephen Diocesan Center. Bishop Larry Silva conferred the ministry to Joseph P. Aglia of Pahala (pictured), Jose R. Almuena Jr. of Honolulu, Jose L. Ancheta of Kapolei, Keith A. Cabiles of Kalihi, William R. Friese of Kapolei, Romeo E. Ganibe of Mililani, David E. Kane of Lihue, Eric W. Kim of Ewa Beach, Stephen A. Kula of Honolulu, Raul A. Perez of Kapolei, Joseph T. Soon of Honolulu, John R. Tolentino of Waikane and Michael E. Weaver of Kailua. (HCH photo | Darlene Dela Cruz)