The Deacon

Back in 2020, inspired by my silver jubilee, I set out to provide a comprehensive spiritual guide for deacons. Entitled “Encountering Christ the Servant: A Spirituality of the Diaconate” (OSV, $20.95), the book focuses on fostering a closer relationship with Christ, emphasizing the importance of spiritual growth, empathy and living out the Gospel in diaconal service. It’s meant to serve as a resource for deacons to align their ministry more closely with Christ’s teachings and example, enhancing their role as servants in the Church. The following are eight key takeaways from the book.

1. Fostering a Deep Interior Life. At the heart of our ministry as deacons lies the cultivation of a rich interior life. This spiritual journey involves dedicating time for personal prayer and reflection, allowing us to draw closer to God. In these moments of solitude, we find the strength and guidance essential for our service. This inward journey shapes our understanding and empathy, aligning our hearts with Christ’s compassion and forming the bedrock of our diaconal ministry.

2. Practicing Empathy and Compassion. Central to Christ’s message and our ministry is empathy and compassion. To serve as Christ did we must understand and share in the feelings of those in our care. This empathetic approach allows us to minister not just with actions but with hearts attuned to the needs of others. It transforms our service from a duty to a heartfelt expression of Christ’s love.

3. Commitment to Devotions and Sacraments. Our engagement with devotions and sacraments is fundamental. These practices are not just rituals but moments of profound connection with the divine. Through them, we are continually renewed and find the strength to serve. This is particularly true of the Eucharist, which is a preeminent source of grace, nourishing us to be Christ’s presence in the world.

4. Embracing Sacrificial Service. In following Christ, we embrace a life of sacrificial service. This means prioritizing the needs of others, often at personal cost. It’s in these acts of selflessness, reminiscent of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, that we find the essence of diaconal ministry.

5. Living the Gospel in Action. The Gospel guides our every choice. As deacons, we are called to embody Christ’s teachings, advocating for justice, showing mercy and being beacons of his transformative love. Our lives should be a testament to the Gospel, inspiring others through our commitment to Christ.

6. Building and Nurturing Communities. A significant aspect of our role is to foster communities where Gospel values are lived out. Just as Christ formed a community of followers, we are tasked with creating spaces of support, love and spiritual growth. This community-building aspect of our ministry allows the Church to be a true reflection of Christ’s love.

7. Lifelong Learning and Growth. Our journey with Christ is one of continuous learning and spiritual development. As deacons, we commit to deepening our understanding of the faith and adapting our ministry to meet the evolving needs of our communities. This commitment ensures that our service remains vibrant, effective and deeply rooted in Christ.

8. Harmonizing Family and Ministry. Integrating family life with our ministerial responsibilities is essential. Our families are not just a part of our lives; they are central to our ministry. A harmonious integration between these two spheres not only strengthens our personal spiritual journey but also enhances our ability to serve others with authenticity and love.

In embracing these key aspects, we, as deacons, deepen our intimacy with Christ, reflecting his love and service in our ministries. This path is not just about fulfilling roles; it’s about embodying the spirit of Christ the Servant in every aspect of our lives. Let us continue on this path with humility and love, ever seeking to grow closer to Christ in all that we say and do.

DEACON DOMINIC CERRATO, Ph.D., is editor of The Deacon and director of diaconal formation for the Diocese of Joliet, in Illinois. He is the founder of Diaconal Ministries, where he gives national presentations and retreats to deacons and diaconal candidates.