The ongoing process of forming Deacons

This is one of those weekends where as a Deacon I rejoice in playing a small role in the formation of future Deacons. In our Archdiocese the Permanent Diaconate has 30 men currently in formation; 10 who will be ordained in December and 20 who are still 2+ years away. Additionally we have about 50 men attending inquiry sessions which may lead to many of them making application to the diaconate.

Ultimately the event of being ordained is God's will and we rely on the promptings of the Holy Spirit. But it is the responsibility of the diaconate community, under the leadership of our Archbishop, to develop a program that selects candidates and then provides a program of four years of instruction, practicums and spirituality leading to the possibility of ordination.

Yesterday was another important day for our 2010 class. In addition to the instructions of the day the class of 10 is busy coordinating and planning activities for the ordination now just 90 days away. They are very busy finalzing their homiletics classes and other formation activities before the final events leading to ordination. Our 2012 class continues to progress in their studies and readings as they approach the halfway point of their formation process.

Today we gather again in community in further support of those men and their wives who are inquiring about the possibility of a vocation to the permanent diaconate. Soon these men will prayerfully consider whether to make application and begin the careful screening process that eventually forms a class.

I know that for me personally, I want to be present for these men and their wives, to be available and that their own discernment process is a source of great joy and hope.

Ultimately, all formation is self-formation. There are so many things happening in the minds and hearts and souls of all these men; whether ordination is 3 months off, or still deciding to apply. I pray for all of them and encourage others to do so as well. And always pray for the vocation of the permanent deacon. Most commonly married, with children and grandchildren, business owners, employees or retired, homeowners, community leaders, etc, they devote their lives to the ministry of charity (service) and the many demands of parish ministry. And most do so with no financial compensation or even reimbursement of any expenses. They are fortified by their own gifts and charisms while being aware of their limitations. Further strengthened by the grace of the sacrament of Holy Orders and following the promptings of the Holy Spirit, they bring Christ to the many corners of the community where most refuse to go.

So this Sunday I look forward with great joy to those events that continue to promote the formation of more servants in God's church.