The Deacon's Bench
From The Texas Catholic Herald:
From all walks of life, 31 men share a common bond in faith and willingness to serve the Archdiocese. On Jan. 31, they were ordained as permanent deacons at a ceremony presided by Daniel Cardinal DiNardo, along with Auxiliary Bishop George A. Sheltz and Archbishop Emeritus Joseph A. Fiorenza.
For each, it marked the end of six years of rigorous study and pastoral formation — and the beginning of consecrated life in the Permanent Diaconate at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, which was filled to capacity by families and supporters of each candidate.
There are now more than 400 permanent deacons serving in the Archdiocese — some working in parishes and schools, serving as liturgists, homilists, catechists, ministers and administrators, while others commit to social ministries such as corrections services, special youth, hospital ministry, port chaplaincy and much more. They assist bishops and priests at the celebration of the Eucharist, assist and bless marriages, preside over Baptisms, funerals and other special blessings. They balance their ordination with their “ordinary” lives, some as husbands, dads and breadwinners.
“What has begun in Baptism with you brothers, has deepended today — intensified — amplified in the call of the Church to ministry and office,” Cardinal DiNardo said during his homily. “As of today you delight, indeed, in sitting amongst God’s people. You will be called most often to stand near the altar. You should take that responsibility personally and seriously.”
Congratulations and welcome, brothers! Ad multos annos!
Photo by Joseph Ky Nguyen / Texas Catholic Herald
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