Two years could not have flown by any quicker. At this hour two years ago I was settling in for a good night's rest on the eve of my ordination to the Permanent Diaconate. At 10 a.m. Saturday morning, December 13, 2008, Archbishop Alfred Hughes laid hands on me and I walked out of St. Louis Cathedral as Deacon Mike Talbot.
The events of that weekend are all fresh in my memory; the ordination Mass, the support of family and friends, the wonderful party Wendy and Elizabeth put together for all those who attended the ordination, the first time I vested for Mass, my very first homily and the wonderful reception at St. Jane's.
And how will I ever forget all the firsts experienced as a Deacon; the first Baptism, Wedding, yes even a funeral, the first time I presided at Benediction, the first retreat and the first time I returned to Rayburn Correctional Center as the Deacon for the men of our Catholic community.
These two years have been very hectic but remarkably joyful. The people I've met, ministries participated in and the knowledge that my mission is to be the icon of Christ the Servant who came to serve not be served.
And as my second anniversary dawns, I'm preapring for the big change in ministry as I move down the road to my new parish assignment. In just a few short weeks, the parish reception that I vividly remember welcoming me as the new Deacon will be replaced in my memory by the reception to say farewell. I come full circle as a Deacon.
So tonight I settle in for another night's rest, content that God is in charge and I am honored to be called to do His will. After two years I embrace my ministry fully and I look forward to whatever the future may hold.
To paraphrase from the Ordination rite:
May God who has begun this good work in me bring it to fulfilment!
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