It was no ordinary weekend for Dr. Edward J. Girard.

The Coaldale resident was ordained a permanent deacon by the Diocese of Allentown on Saturday. The next morning, Girard preached the homily during Mass for the first time in that role at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Palmerton.Girard, 58, has been a member of Sacred Heart since the summer of 2008. In May 2009 he became its coordinator of religious education.Traditionally, a permanent deacon will have his first Mass at his home parish."This holds a little extra meaning for me because the bishop has actually assigned me to stay at Sacred Heart," Girard said during a reception held in his honor Sunday afternoon. "I love this parish, and these are the people who I want to be with. I'm very thankful for this opportunity."Girard said he's proud of many of the outreach programs Sacred Heart is involved with such as Family Promise, which helps homeless families in the area.Parishioner after parishioner greeted Girard with hugs and pleasantries during Sunday's reception, some even giving him a homemade sweet to take home."This is what makes this place so special," he said. "The people pour themselves out for you. I feel right at home."Girard was one of 47 men within the Diocese of Allentown to be ordained Saturday.According to the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate at Georgetown University, it is probably the largest group of permanent deacons being ordained in any diocese in the country this year.As a sacramental minister, the deacon is an ordinary minister of the Eucharist. He may baptize, witness marriages, conduct funeral services, and preside at prayer services and devotions. He may also preach at Mass, give instructions to people wishing to become Catholic, be involved in religious education, and conduct marriage and family enrichment programs.Preparation for reception of the order of deacon involves a period of six years."Today is a very special day for us," said Father William Campion, of Sacred Heart Parish. "Dr. Girard is very well-loved here."