Restored after 1,500 years by the Second Vatican Council, the Diaconate is rooted in the experience of the New Testament Church. We read in Acts that the apostles chose deacons to help them respond to the pressing needs of the infant Church in Jerusalem and maintain fidelity to its mission of service. Deacons are called to embody the ideal of every follower of Christ, to be “one who serves” (Luke 22:27).
Many deacons are numbered among the saints celebrated by the Church throughout the liturgical year. Stephen, the first Christian martyr, was one of the original seven deacons in the Acts of the Apostles. Lawrence, among the great saints in the early church and on the list of martyrs venerated at Rome, was untiring in his efforts to serve the greatest treasure of the Church of Rome, its poor.
In the early Church, deacons responded to the needs identified by the bishops. Contemporary deacons also have a wide outlook. Ordained for the service of the diocese, they are recognized as collaborative associates of the bishops. The ministry of deacons, in parishes, and in special outreach ministries, by its very nature, calls for a team approach, complimentary to the ministries of others.
If you, or someone you know, is interested in discerning a call to the diaconate, contact the Director of Deacons, Deacon Robert Doyle at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
