Rite of Candidacy for Holy Orders--Deacon Formation

It was my pleasure to attend Mass on Saturday afternoon at St. Ambrose Cathedral in Des Moines to witness six men being admitted to Candidacy for Holy Orders. Although there are many years of formation in front of these men, they have made this important step in their discernment process toward becoming deacons.  Bishop Pates and the congregation gave the men and their wives a lengthy ovation acknowledging their dedication and commitment to Christ and His Church.

It has been more than twenty years since my ordination day, but I vividly remember the years of classes and formation that went into preparing me for that day.  Working a full time job, raising a family, and going to classes wasn't always easy.  However, the grace of God was present and gave Margaret and I the strength we needed to persevere.  I am grateful for all the prayers and support we received from others during those years.

I served as deacon director in the Diocese of Pueblo back in 2002 and 2003.  I sat on the diaconate formation board in the Diocese of Cheyenne in 2017 and 2018.  I have seen the transformation of individuals and groups as they embarked on this journey toward the diaconate.  The power of the Holy Spirit at work in our midst is amazing. 

These six men in the Diocese of Des Moines are looking at four more years of intense study.  Please keep them in your prayers.  

(Deacon candidates in Wyoming--you are a little closer to ordination than these men in Des Moines.  Please know that you are still in my prayers.  I know the last couple of years can be exhausting.  Hang in there.)