Today we kicked off the fall classes for both our 2010 and 2012 formation groups. I was blessed to be there today and spending some time with both classes. Our 2010 group is certainly entering an important phase of formation as ordination day is now just about 120 days away. This class will concentrate on homiletics this semester with workshops on the sacraments that deacons often preside at: baptisms, weddings and funerals. They also will get a healthy dose of spirituality and some final classes to fulfill the in-class curriculum necessary to be presented to the Archbishop for ordination.
I was very happy to attend lunch with the 2010 group today to just listen to their hopes and joys and anxieties too as ordination dras ever closer.
Our 2012 group is now approaching the halfway point of class time. They are taking a variety classes with some emphasis on their ongoing spirituality. On Tuesday night, at the communal celebration of the Feast of St. Lawrence, these men will be installed as readers. This office will be followed next year by acolyte and eventually in 2012 by ordination to the diaconate.
I'm very happy that I mentor three of these men. I count it all joy at this opportunity and strive to meet with these guys more often in the months ahead away from the classroom. These personal meetings are so necessary as I recall the great effort of my mentor when I was in their shoes just a few years ago.
Although the day was long I think it vitally important that these men, and their wives, see support from those of us who have already been ordained. I completely enjoyed the day spent with all of them and hope to do this periodically in the months ahead.
Please continue to pray for the men in your parish and across your diocese who may be thinking about a call to the diaconate. And then join them and me in praying always for vocations to the Priesthood!
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