Kowalewski, a Rhode Island native, was ordained a transitional deacon on Jan. 11 by Doerfler. He was accepted as a seminarian for the Diocese of Marquette in 2013 for the Companions of Christ the Lamb in Paradise to prepare to be a religious order priest. He studied for two years at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit and spent two years serving in parishes in L’Anse, Baraga and Assinins. 

In 2016, he continued his studies for the priesthood for the Diocese of Marquette, now studying to be a parish priest. He has completed his studies at Sacred Heart Seminary and School of Theology in Hales Corners, Wis. His home parish is Sacred Heart Parish in L’Anse. He is the son of Tony and Sheryl Kowalewski.

Cappella is originally from of Southgate, Mich. He began his studies at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit in 2010 as a seminarian for the Archdiocese of Detroit.

However, in 2015, he discerned religious life with the Companions of Christ the Lamb, and became a seminarian for the Diocese of Marquette. He has completed his studies at Sacred Heart Major Seminary this spring.

ROMEO CAPPELLA

Merkel, an Upper Peninsula native from St. Mary and St. Joseph Parish in Iron Mountain, has been a seminarian for the diocese since 2015.

After his diaconate ordination, Merkel will continue his studies at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit. God willing, Merkel, along with Cappella, will be ordained to the priesthood next year.

Michael Kowalewski