Serving as deacon at Mass (Photo: Sandra Largo)

My time in the Diaconate has been a period of immense grace. The day of my ordination and the days following were filled with a profound sense of change within me. It's a subtle shift, difficult to articulate, yet undeniably present. Since then, I have been blessed with numerous opportunities to serve. I have participated in various liturgical roles, including benedictions, baptisms, and a funeral. I have been invited to offer homilies during Mass and reflections during other services. I have been called upon to bless people, their homes, religious articles, and their cars. The Greek word "diakonia" translates as "service." As a deacon, I need to strive to embody Christ the Servant. This is a challenging path, requiring prayer, spiritual direction, reflection, and the support of my community.

A birthday blessing at the seminary (Photo: Kip Clark)Each request for a blessing is a reminder of my call to service. My time in Florida has itself been a particular blessing, allowing me to experience the richness of diaconal ministry. Here at the seminary, deacons have defined roles at seminary liturgies. We are also assigned to local parishes. I have been serving at Saint Vincent Ferrer Parish, Delray Beach, Florida, named after the renowned Dominican preacher. I have had the privilege of baptizing three children there and preaching on many weekends. These experiences have been both joyful and formative as I continue my journey towards the priesthood. I have also had the opportunity to explore different preaching styles, and the parishioners at Saint Vincent Ferrer have been incredibly receptive. They have provided constructive feedback and opportunities to preach to diverse age groups, including a recent Mass at the parish’s grade school. Preparing for homilies and for different services has provided invaluable training, allowing me to apply my seminary education to real-world ministry.
Benediction at the Seminary (Photo: Seminarian Sean Lee)Beyond the external aspects of service, sacraments, and liturgy, the diaconate has deepened my understanding of my role within the Mass. As deacon, I see myself as a mediator between the people and the priest, standing alongside him at the altar, presenting their prayers to God. I am reminded of the Eastern tradition, where the deacon is seen as a guardian of the priest during the Holy Sacrifice. This "guarding" is reflected in how we wear the stole – from left to right, symbolizing the Word of God as our sword. The deacon fulfills two important roles: sharing God's Word and sharing the Cup of Holy Communion. I share God's Word by studying the Bible so I can better explain our faith and defend it. I share the Cup, which holds the precious blood of Jesus Christ, to bring God's people closer to Him.
Preaching at St. Vincent Ferrer (Photo: Angelica Aguilera)My service in the diaconate has changed how I see the world and how I live. I pray that this new understanding and the grace I have received will stay with me throughout my ministry.
A selfie taken by Br. Benedict Maria on
Gaudete Sunday at St. Vincent Ferrer Parish
with Fr. Dennis Gonzalez

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