SICKLERVILLE – Thirty permanent deacons from across the Diocese gathered for a Diaconate Communion Breakfast at Saint Charles Borromeo Parish on March 8.
The day began with Mass celebrated by Father Nicholas Dudo, diocesan vicar for clergy, followed by breakfast, fellowship and a presentation by Dr. Maria Elena Hallion, executive director of Catholic Charities of South Jersey.
“It’s important that we present to the diaconate community because they are the perfect liaison to build relationships within the parishes,” Dr. Hallion said.
Along with Sylvia Loumeau, director of clinical and social work services for Catholic Charities of South Jersey, Dr. Hallion gave an overview of the services Catholic Charities provides within the six counties of the Diocese. She said it’s important that parishes understand the mission of Catholic Charities and the services it offers.
“We want to make sure that it is clear what we do,” she said. “There is a misunderstanding, or a lack of understanding, of what Catholic Charities does in South Jersey. I think when people are confused, or there is a misunderstanding of information, that eventually will create negativity.”
Loumeau said the diaconate community can be a voice for Catholic Charities in the parishes. “Deacons can help us organize within the parish. They can positively relate that what we do is a value. Once you start talking about it in parishes, you’ll find people will approach you.”
While helping to get the word out about what Catholic Charities can do to help parishioners, Dr. Hallion said that deacons can help find volunteers, too.
“If we get enough volunteers to start working with us, come start spending time with us, then they’re going to be our spokespersons,” she said. “They know other people – they have friends, they have families. We need it to be communicated what we do and what we need to do.”
Deacon Jim Hallman, who serves at Our Lady of Peace Parish in Williamstown, said he found the presentation informative. “I think the presentation that they gave was something that was much-needed.”
Father Dudo explained that get-togethers like the communion breakfast foster camaraderie and community. “To share some food together and fellowship, and then to hear a great presentation to inspire us in our mission of serving as deacons, I think that’s the basic principles of why these events are important.”
Deacon Hallman agreed. “The breakfast itself was worthwhile. Speaking with deacons that you hadn’t seen for such a long period of time, catching up on things that we didn’t even realize we did was exceptional. I think it’s one way of also sharing best practices.”
Father Dudo reiterated the value of diaconate gatherings.
“Deacons need to be in community and fraternity, just to be able to support each other and learn from each other,” he said, “and this … communion breakfast, where we come around the table of the Lord, that brings us together.”
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