As the vision for the future of our diocese continues to evolve and develop, a number of parish partnerships have been considering how the role of the deacon might be part of the picture in the future. Ten parishes in the diocese have one or more active permanent deacons, and there are two men in formation for the permanent diaconate at St John’s Seminary, Wonersh. Des Connors, who also studied there, became a permanent deacon recently at Stansted.
If the desire of the Second Vatican Council, to restore the ancient ministry of deacons as a stable order in the Church, is to be fulfilled in our diocese, we need to look closely at how the ministry of the deacon both complements and serves the priests and the people of the diocese, and consider how vocations to this sacred ministry might be promoted.
By kind permission of Canon John McGrath, a study day on the permanent diaconate has been arranged at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, 11 Church Hill, Epping, CM16 4RA on Saturday 14th September 2019 from 9.30 to 1.00 (preceded by Mass in the church at 9.00).
The event is aimed at all those interested in finding out more about the permanent diaconate and the role it might play in the future of our diocese, and at anyone who may feel a sense of calling to this ancient yet very modern ministry in the Church.
Come and find out more – all are welcome
Further info: [email protected]