Family support a blessing in vocation to diaconate

By Deacon José René Zayas

As I reflect on my vocation to the diaconate, I recall one day, while still in formation, a phone call I received from my mother. We conversed about her health, my daughters’ activities and accomplishments at school, and then she said, “Mi hijo, do you remember when we were at Mass one day and you told me, ‘Mamita, I want to be like the father who is celebrating Mass.’”

We joyfully reminisced about that moment. A few days following this conversation, my mother died, sitting in the living room quietly and peacefully moving her rosary beads in her hand as family surrounded her in prayer.  I was 7 years old at the time, but I clearly remember this desire to be a priest. It was at that moment that my call to be at the altar, serving God and his people, began.

Years later, I arrived in this country and joined the parish of Holy Name in Camden. It was at my parish where my spiritual director invited me to join the diaconate program. After some time of discernment, listening to the voice of God through great friends and encouraging mentors, I entered formation in 2004.

Initially, I honestly never asked God if this was what he wanted from me; I just knew it was a good thing, therefore, it came from God. It was through the process of formation and discernment when things became clearer, and I knew this was the life God was calling me to live.

They were six very intense years, oftentimes filled with the desire not to continue, but ultimately my longing to serve and do God’s will drove me on. After many personal trials, I was finally ordained a deacon by Bishop Joseph Galante on Sept. 25, 2010. 

I feel great joy in my vocation. Although there continue to be challenges, I trust that God is the owner of the vineyard; I am only a worker trying to serve. With the help, prayers and support of my beloved wife, Maritza, without whom I could not do all I do, I have continued onward by the grace of God. My ardent desire to help others encounter Christ, His Peace, His Love, His Mercy, is the fire that keeps my heart burning for the Lord.

I know that I came to this world to serve others, and every day I ask the Lord for the grace to serve as He does. While listening to others’ stories often plagued by hurt and frustration, helping families practically broken by pain to reconcile with one another, I say, “My God how great you are.”

This year, I celebrate 13 glorious years as a deacon. I discover more and more that “God is God.” My family has always been with me; without their support, it would be impossible to fulfill my vocation to the diaconate. As men discern their call to this beautiful vocation, I would say first and foremost to build a life of deep personal prayer with Our Lord Jesus Christ. Secondly, seek a trusted spiritual director to help you discern the call. Thirdly, listen to the voice of God’s people. Many times, others see in us what we cannot see in ourselves. Lastly, take a risk, and in faith, give an unconditional “yes” to God as Our Lady did.

Deacon José René Zayas serves in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Camden.