08/29/2026
Double the joy on August 29th! Join us in wishing a very happy 6th Ordination Anniversary to two priests in our diocese who share the exact same ordination day. We are deeply grateful for their joyful witness, pastoral devotion, and generous hearts!
🕊️ Father Alexander Hernandez Ordained on August 29, 2020, Father Hernandez was raised in East Tennessee, with Our Lady of Fatima in Alcoa as his home parish. After nine years of seminary formation at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis, he began his priesthood at All Saints Parish in Knoxville, where he served faithfully for nearly four years. Today, he serves as Parochial Vicar at the Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul in Chattanooga, bringing his vibrant faith and pastoral care to the heart of downtown.
✝️ Father Zachary Griffith Ordained on August 29, 2020, at the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, Father Griffith has brought energy, empathy, and steadfast faith to every community he serves. He spent four years as associate pastor at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Chattanooga, served at St. Mary in Johnson City and as chaplain for the ETSU Catholic Center, and leads as chaplain for the diocesan Courage and EnCourage ministries. Today, he serves as Parochial Administrator at Notre Dame Catholic Church in Greeneville.
Please join us in praying for Father Griffith and Father Hernandez today, and let us continue to pray that more young men answer the call to the priesthood!