Call to the Diaconate QUESTION from Joe June 20, 2000 Dear Brother:
This fall I will be journeying down the road of discernment with a spiritual advisor in the hope that I have a true calling to the diaconate. I am wondering if I have such a call and is there a way to really know that one is called to this service. I am very excited about walking down this path to bring others to Christ. I guess I'm hoping the call is real. Anything you can share with me would be helpful.
Sincerely Joe
ANSWER by John-Paul Ignatius, O.L.S.M. on July 21, 2000 Dear Mr. Joe:
It appears you are doing what you need to be doing.
Discernment is not as complicated as people make it out to be.
You apparently have already discerned the still small voice and perhaps the advice of friends' discernment enough to begin the program.
Now you will go through 3-4 years of discernment. It is one step at a time. Your spiritual director and the people in the deaconate program will assist you in discovering your calling.
Listen to the still small voice.
Remember, to do that requires that we shut-up. God tells us: BE STILL AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD.
If we are quiet enough to let God get in a word edgewise, then listen carefully for His voice as you go from step to step in the diaconate program.....
By the time you get to the place nearing ordination, you should know. And if you don't, then don't accept ordination.
God Bless on your adventure.
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