Sitting in the back of class

This is one of those really robust days in the diaconate community here in the Archdiocese of New Orleans.  At our diaconate center in Harvey, La., just across the Mississippi River from New Orleans, both classes are in session.  In one room are the 24 aspirants(first year) and their wives as they receive instruction in Scripture.  Down the hall are our 20 acolytes(third year) and their wives as they are reflecting on the spirituality of matrimony.  In the afternoon our acolytes will begin moral theology while the aspirants continue on in scripture.

As someone who assists the director with formation activities it is pure joy to both be present here to help,whenever help is needed, and to relive these instructions from my own formation.  It was not that long ago.  I began as an aspirant in 2004 and had the same class on Scripture.  And as an acolyte we had several spirituality classes too.

It has been a good day so far as both groups are attentive and present to their formation activities.  In addition to the educational aspects of the day, formation requires forming and being in community.  During breaks, lunch, etc. the men and the wives are asked to form community, not just cliques or comfort zones.  All of them are in this together and as aspirants, candidates, or acolytes, they form the greater community of Deacons, from the newest installed to those who have been serving as Deacons for nearly 40 years.

After the week that saw us bury our beloved Archbishop Hannan, the man who restored the permanent diaconate for New Orleans, it is good to be back in routine. 

And if this is not enough, many of our Deacon brothers and their wives are gathered at St. Joseph Abbey on one of the three annual retreats that are provided for us for our continued spiritual growth, reflection and renewal.

Please pray for the Community of Deacons; ordained to serve we indeed work hard to be a living icon of Christ the Servant.  And as my post from yesterday may indicate it is not always easy or understood.  But that's ok.  Our diaconate community is strong and robust and looking strong with 44 men currently in formation!