Pastor's Corner, May 18, 2014

Dear Parishioners and Friends,

Just yesterday Bishop Barres ordained two young men to the Order of Deacon. They are preparing for their ordination to the priesthood and so we use the term “transitional” deacon to distinguish them from the permanent deacons who remain deacons and who can be married. The diaconate is a distinct and unique ministry and not merely a step along the way to the priesthood.

Scripture tells us that the first seven deacons were ordained to help with the distribution of food so that the apostles could devote themselves “to prayer and to the ministry of the word” (Acts 6: 4). Their service was centered on charity and they assisted the first bishops.

The diaconate is the third degree of the hierarchy of the Sacrament of Holy Orders. A deacon is ordained not to priesthood but for ministry and service. A deacon assists the bishop and priests, especially at the Holy Eucharist. He is an ordinary minister of Holy Communion, he proclaims the Gospel, he can give the homily, and his activity in the Church centers on service (the Greek word for service is “diakonia”) and works of charity just as it was from the beginning of the Church.

We are blessed at the Cathedral to have the service of two permanent deacons – Deacons Bill Hassler and Rob Snyder. We have also had many transitional deacons here as well. May the Lord continue to show His face of charity through their ministry.

In Christ,

Msgr. Baker