Scripture is filled with people who God called: Moses, David, Samuel, Mary, Joseph, Peter, and Paul to name just a few. As illustrated by these notable Biblical figures, each one answered the call with an absolute trust in God while not necessarily knowing what was in store for them. In their yes to “do” a specific job, they exemplify the essence of any call from God is not the job or ministry, but rather to enter more deeply, profoundly and intimately into relationship with him, for he calls each of us into existence out of his love, to rest in his love. Only by resting in his love are we led to then respond and offer ourselves in service to him by serving others.

Coming from the Greek word diakonos, meaning servant, the sacrament of Holy Orders marks the deacon with an imprint (“character”), which cannot be removed and which configures him to Christ, who made himself the “deacon” or servant of all. (CCC 1570) Because of this, the deacon who comes from among the people, presents himself at the altar of the Lord to be set apart or “ordered” to be Christ the servant to the people.

If you are a man currently between the ages of 30 and 57, might God be calling you to serve as a deacon? Starting in August, the Diaconal Ministry Office will host Project Stephen sessions. This is an opportunity to walk with other men and their wives who are also discerning God’s call. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about who the deacon is and how he serves in word, liturgy and charity; the history and development of the diaconate; and the four pillars of formation.

In addition, one will discover how to discern well, with a focus on prayer as the way God communicates his life and makes his presence known in the soul. It starts as an internal action of finding God where he is completely present: in the heart. To do so, one must empty his heart of those things that impede him from fully encountering God, which then allows God’s love to fill him and lead him to respond with charity. A man cannot properly discern God’s call without living a life of prayer, especially spending time in silence and solitude, for to hear the Word of God does not involve words from him.

For more information about the diaconate or to register for Project Stephen, please visit the Office of Diaconal Ministry website at www.austindiocese.org/diaconal-formation.

Project Stephen sessions begin soon

Men between the ages of 30 and 57 are invited to learn more about the diaconate during Project Stephen sessions that will be held at the following times and locations:

• Aug. 16 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Diocesan Pastoral Center in Austin
• Sept. 13 from 2 to 4 p.m. at St. Joseph Parish in Bryan
• Sept. 27 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Parish Hall at Christ the King in Belton
• Oct. 18 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Diocesan Pastoral Center in Austin
• Nov. 8 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Parish Hall at St. Jerome in Waco
• Nov. 15 from 2 to 4 p.m. at St. Mary Catholic Center in College Station

For more information, email diaconateformation@austindiocese.org or call (512) 949-2459.