The Deacon

The 2026 National Conference on the Diaconate, taking place June 7-10 at the Downtown Marriott Hotel in Indianapolis, Indiana, offers deacons and their wives an extraordinary opportunity to deepen their understanding of their vocation. The conference theme, As I Have Loved You: Clerical Unity in the Heart of Christ, invites deacons to reflect on the profound call to unity that Christ extended to his disciples — a unity that is essential for the Church’s mission in today’s complex and challenging world.

Rooted in my forthcoming book of the same title, the theme speaks to the urgent need for stronger bonds among clergy — deacons, priests and bishops alike. This conference will provide a space for clergy to gather in prayer, dialogue and fellowship, exploring how a renewed commitment to unity can enhance their ministry and enrich the life of the Church. It is an invitation to examine the interconnectedness of the clergy, rooted in the Sacrament of Holy Orders, and to consider practical ways to foster collaboration and mutual support. At its heart, this theme challenges all of us in ministry to imitate Christ’s love — self-giving, sacrificial and unifying — and to bring that love more intentionally into every aspect of our service.

The modern Church faces an increasingly fragmented world where individualism and division are ever more pervasive. Within this context, clerical unity is not simply an ideal but a necessity for effectively witnessing to Christ. As the clergy share a common sacrament in holy orders and, in particular, the diaconate, they embody the one Christ, ministering as deacon, priest and bishop. This unity reflects Christ’s own mission of service and sacrifice, offering the faithful a cohesive and powerful image of the Church.

Yet the reality of clerical relationships often falls short of this vision. Misunderstandings about the role of the diaconate and inadequate collaboration among the grades of holy orders can hinder the Church’s mission. By grounding clerical unity in Christ’s dual identity as servant (diakonos) and sacrifice (sacerdos), the conference aims to renew and strengthen these bonds, fostering collaboration that flows naturally from shared identity and mission.

The conference will highlight the importance of seeing our distinct roles not as sources of competition but as complementary parts of a greater whole. Building stronger relationships among clergy starts with humility, mutual respect and a willingness to collaborate. When we come together with open hearts and a shared purpose, we can more effectively reflect Christ’s love in our ministries.

Rediscovering the Dimensions of the Diaconate Ministry

The conference will also invite us to rediscover the deeper dimensions of our ministry. Priests will reflect on their diaconal identity, rooted in service, while deacons will consider the sacrificial aspects of their calling. These reflections help us better appreciate how our roles are complementary and interconnected, each contributing to the life of the Church in their own way.

Finally, the conference will provide practical steps to grow in unity. Shared prayer, opportunities for collaboration in ministry and ongoing formation are just a few ways we can build stronger bonds with one another. These practical tools will help us live out our shared vocation more effectively, creating a sense of communion that inspires and supports our service to the People of God.

This conference is not merely an event; it is an opportunity for transformation. Deacons are encouraged to invite their priests, fostering shared growth and collaboration. Together, participants will engage in prayer, dialogue and reflection, exploring ways to embody the unity that Christ prayed for: “That they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they may also be in us” (Jn 17:21).

Details on registration and accommodations will be available soon. Mark your calendars for this significant gathering, where clergy from across the nation will unite to renew their shared commitment to Christ’s mission. This conference promises to be a pivotal moment in the ongoing journey of the diaconate and its essential role in the life of the Church.

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.