Deacon Convocation 2023--Denver, Colorado

Although it was nearly midnight when I went to bed, I was up at 4:50 AM and on the road at 6:00 AM heading to Denver.  (I am extremely grateful that I do not have to deal with Denver traffic on a regular basis.)  It was the annual Deacon Convocation today.  I have been ordained nearly 24 years now, and days like this remind me just how fortunate I am for all of the continuing education opportunities I have had through the years.

We began with Mass.  Archbishop Aquila was the celebrant and was also the first speaker of the day.  His clear message to us was a breath of fresh air.

Archbishop Aquila gave the same advice I frequently give in talks.  If you need to be renewed in your faith in the Eucharist, pray with chapter 6 of John's Gospel.

Archbishop Aquila gave a powerful presentation and then took questions from the deacons.

It was a blessing to spend this day in prayer and study with the deacons from all across northern Colorado.  The Archdiocese of Denver is being served well by these laborers in the vineyard of the Lord.

I did a little bit of exploring today.  Since I studied and was ordained in the Archdiocese of St. Louis, I have more familiarity with the campus in Shrewsbury, Missouri than what I have of the campus in Denver, Colorado. I tried to rectify that at least a little today.

It is a beautiful campus.

I am grateful to everyone who worked behind the scenes to make this day possible.  Continuing education and formation is essential for our ministry. One of the speakers pointed us toward Psalm 100.  We belong to the Lord. That has to impact the way we minister.  It is not about us.  It is about God.

Blessings to each of my readers.  May you continue to grow during your Lenten pilgrimage!