The Deacon

In our increasingly digital world, technology offers new ways to support faith formation and foster community, especially for deacons and their wives. While the Church upholds the necessity of sacramental life and the value of in-person gatherings, digital platforms can serve as practical tools for deacons, especially those in remote areas or with demanding schedules that limit in-person gatherings. In our countless conversations with deacons and their families, several essential needs have emerged, including access to ongoing formation, the desire for stronger connections and better support for deacons’ wives. Here, we explore how digital tools might serve these specific areas.

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops emphasizes the importance of ongoing formation for deacons to help them grow in ministry and deepen their understanding of faith. However, access to formation programs differs across dioceses. While some dioceses have well-developed formation structures, others struggle to provide the same level of resources due to budget or logistical limitations. As a result, many deacons turn to outside sources to deepen their knowledge and skills in areas such as homiletics, sacramental preparation and parish leadership.

Digital platforms can bridge this gap, making quality formation available to a broader range of deacons. Video-conferencing tools such as Zoom and video-on-demand platforms can connect deacons with knowledgeable speakers and programs, even across distances. And online resources from established institutions such as Franciscan at Home, the Josephinum Diaconate Institute and various Catholic networks enable deacons to access formation wherever they are.

Moreover, virtual gatherings provide a space for deacons to discuss pastoral challenges, share experiences and explore complex issues unique to their role. These discussions help deacons develop a shared understanding of their vocation and find the support they need to navigate the particular challenges of ministry.

Making Connections

While community is essential for the spiritual and pastoral life of deacons, many feel isolated due to geographic or scheduling constraints. Deacons serving in rural areas or small dioceses may have fewer opportunities to connect with others in their vocation. Even in urban parishes, the demands of family, work and ministry can limit time for fellowship, leaving some deacons feeling disconnected from their broader community.

Regular virtual gatherings can address this need for connection. Although they may not replace face-to-face interactions, they still serve a valuable role in fostering unity and camaraderie among deacons. In these meetings, deacons can share practical advice, offer encouragement and spiritual support, and build friendships that sustain them in ministry. Connecting with others who understand the unique challenges of the diaconate can be a source of renewed energy and commitment, reminding each deacon that he is part of a larger, supportive community.

For Deacon Wives

A deacon’s spouse often plays a crucial role in supporting her husband’s ministry. Despite this, support for deacon wives can be minimal, with few resources tailored specifically to their needs. This is particularly true for wives who don’t have direct contact with other deacon families due to distance or parish demands.

Digital communities allow deacon wives to connect with others in similar situations, offering a space where they can share experiences, ask questions and offer one another support. Virtual forums, discussion groups and online gatherings offer encouragement and camaraderie to help deacon wives explore their role in ministry and find strength in their own calling.

When deacon wives have opportunities to connect with one another, they often discover new ways to support their families and deepen their faith. These digital spaces affirm the essential role of deacon wives, creating a more holistic support system for the diaconate and ensuring that both deacons and their families feel valued and equipped for ministry.

Getting Started

For deacons, Church leaders and diocesan staff interested in integrating technology into ministry, here are several practical ways to get started.

Expand formation through virtual offerings: Online workshops or remote participation options for in-person events allow deacons everywhere to access high-quality formation. Offering recordings of sessions also provides flexibility, making it easier for deacons to balance their schedules.

Foster community with online groups: Platforms like Zoom allow for regular virtual gatherings where deacons can share their experiences and build relationships. Utilizing breakout rooms for small group discussions creates opportunities for deeper connections and shared insights.

Host virtual retreats: Virtual retreats that offer a combination of presentations, discussion times and personal reflection help deacons and their families deepen their spiritual lives. Hold retreats throughout the year to provide deacons with regular access to spiritual renewal.

Support deacon wives: Creating online gatherings specifically for deacon wives gives them space to share their unique experiences. Strengthening deacon wives in their roles builds a stronger foundation for both family life and the diaconate as a whole.

Share resources across dioceses: Platforms like Google Drive or Dropbox enable dioceses to distribute materials and best practices, making valuable resources more widely available. Shared platforms for educational materials also help maintain continuity in formation.

Gather feedback regularly: Online surveys or feedback forms can help dioceses tailor programs to meet the needs of deacons and their families. Gathering input ensures that formation and support initiatives remain responsive to the evolving needs of the diaconal community.

While the process of integrating technology into ministry requires time, discernment and effort, the potential impact is substantial. Deacons and their families need spaces to connect, share their wisdom and support each other on the path of discipleship. By leveraging digital resources, the Church can strengthen the bond of the diaconate and empower deacons to serve with renewed vigor.

We started the online community EveryDayDeacon to create dynamic digital spaces where deacons and their families can find both resources and community. By offering practical, faith-centered support through online gatherings, educational materials and fellowship opportunities, EveryDayDeacon seeks to help deacons and their wives flourish in their vocation, bridging distances and empowering them to serve effectively. With a vision that aligns technology with the heart of ministry, EveryDayDeacon hopes to shape a future where digital resources enrich the diaconate and extend the light of Christ to all corners of the world. For more information, visit EveryDayDeacon.com.

ALEX QUINTANA and MATTHEW FREEBERSYER are co-founders of the Catholic online platform SanctiFind and its online community for permanent deacons, EveryDayDeacon.