By Deacon Charles Schiapelli
In a world searching for meaning, justice and authentic witness, the Catholic Church needs men who are willing to serve with humility, courage and deep faith. The vocation to the permanent diaconate is a sacred call – one that invites men to follow the example of Christ the Servant.
Deacons are ordained ministers who proclaim the Gospel, assist at the altar, preach, baptize, witness marriages and bring the Eucharist to the sick. But their ministry is more than what happens in the sanctuary. Deacons live at the intersection of the Church and the world. Many are married and have families. Most work in secular careers. Yet, their lives are rooted in prayer and sacramental grace, always seeking to make Christ present in daily life.
The Acts of the Apostles tells us that the first deacons were chosen because they were “full of the Spirit and wisdom.” (Acts 6:3) Today, we still need men of prayer, integrity and service to step forward. The world is hungry for the Gospel. Our parishes need strong, faithful men to help lead, to teach and to reach the margins. Whether it is ministering to the imprisoned, comforting the grieving or proclaiming the Word in a homily, the deacon is a bridge, between the Church and the street, between the altar and the marketplace.
Could God be calling you?
The call to the diaconate doesn’t begin with a lightning bolt. It begins with a whisper, perhaps from a priest, deacon or parishioner who says, “Have you ever considered being a deacon?” It may begin in quiet prayer or during time before the Blessed Sacrament. If your heart stirs at the thought of serving the Church in a deeper way, don’t ignore it.
Formation for the diaconate is both rigorous and rewarding. It is a journey of intellectual, spiritual and pastoral growth. But more than training for ministry, it is a deepening of your relationship with Christ and His Church.
The Church needs your “yes.” Open the door, you may discover that the call to serve has been with you all along.
If you feel God may be calling you, please contact the Diaconate Office at 856-583-2858 or email linda.decosta@camdendiocese.org
Deacon Charles Schiapelli is assistant director of Diaconate Formation for the Diocese of Camden.
If You Go
Men interested in learning more about the permanent diaconate are invited to an information session on the ministry of a deacon. The meeting will be held from 7-8:30 p.m. on May 20 at the Diaconate Center, 133 N. 3rd St., Hammonton. Please R.S.V.P. at 856-583-2858 or linda.decosta@camdendiocese.org.
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