As Anglicans, we have inherited a rich and robust theology of the diaconal office. We believe that deacons are essential and necessary for a healthy Church. Despite this, our stewardship of the office has not always yielded an equally rich and robust diaconal ministry. Why do we have such a disconnect between theology and practice?…
Catechize Like a Deacon
“You have entreated me, brother Deogratias, to send you something in writing that might be of use to you on the question of instructing beginners in the faith. As you say, in Carthage, where you are a deacon, those who are to be given their initial grounding in Christian faith are often brought to you…
Not “Just” a Deacon
Handshakes and metal plates I grew up around deacons. In my Southern Baptist upbringing, deacons were most commonly observed at the doors of the church offering handshakes and smiles. Otherwise, they were found in their other natural habitat: at the end of a pew passing or taking a metal plate. Often, this was an offertory…
Are You Called to Ordained Ministry?
My work involves assisting people in what we call the discernment process, which asks, “Am I called to Ordained Ministry?” People often want to know a good way to discern an answer to this question. I’ve adapted some material that I’ve written for use in our diocese. This may be helpful. This article doesn’t deal…
The Gospel in Human Decline
In several of his books, Henri Nouwen recounts how the severely physically and mentally disabled residents of Daybreak, a L’Arche community became his spiritual mentors. Nouwen saw, with the eyes of faith, what many could not: the Spirit is not hindered by human frailty. He believed that great saints who are in continual, hidden converse…
