Bishop Parkes to Receive Oath of Permanence from Two Priests Joining the Diocese of Saint Petersburg

Who: Bishop Gregory Parkes, Father Andrew Burns, and Father Francisco Hernandez
What: Bishop Parkes will receive the Oath of Permanence from Father Andrew Burns and Father Francisco Hernandez as they officially become incardinated priests of the Diocese of Saint Petersburg, effective June 1, 2026.
When: Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.
Where: Diocese of Saint Petersburg Pastoral Center (6363 9th Avenue North St. Petersburg, FL 33710)
Details: Father Andrew Burns is currently a priest of the Diocese of Paterson, New Jersey, and serves as Parochial Vicar at the Cathedral of St. Jude the Apostle in St. Petersburg.
Father Francisco Hernandez is currently a priest of the Diocese of Caguas, Puerto Rico, and serves as Parochial Vicar at St. Paul Parish in Tampa.
The term “incardination” comes from the Latin word cardo, meaning “hinge.” Through incardination, a priest becomes formally attached to a diocese and serves under the authority and pastoral care of its bishop.
The Diocese of Saint Petersburg joyfully welcomes Fathers Burns and Hernandez as permanent members of the diocesan clergy and asks for continued prayers for their ministry and the communities they serve.The term “incardination” comes from the Latin word cardo, meaning “hinge.” Through incardination, a priest becomes formally attached to a diocese and serves under the authority and pastoral care of its bishop.
The Diocese of Saint Petersburg joyfully welcomes Fathers Burns and Hernandez as permanent members of the diocesan clergy and asks for continued prayers for their ministry and the communities they serve.
Contact: Allison Munden, amunden@dosp.org
About the Catholic Diocese of Saint Petersburg: The Catholic Diocese of Saint Petersburg proclaims the Gospel of Jesus Christ and invites all people to encounter the love and mercy of Jesus Christ through worship, service, and faith.

