THE WORD TO THE WISE - EARLY FOR TRAVEL

[RB Williams, OP]

SATURDAY, APRIL 18, 2026  SATURDAY IN THE 2ND WEEK OF EASTER

[Acts 6:1-7 and John 6:16-21]

     As the number of disciples continued to grow, the Hellenists complained against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution.  So the TWelve called together the community of the disciples and said, "It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at table.  Brothers, select from among you seven reputable men, filled with the Spirit and wisdom, whom we shall appoint to this task, whereas we shall devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word."  [Acts[

     The earliest community was experiencing growing pains.  And there appears to have been some favoritism being shown in the food pantry!  The solution is one in which our modern Permanent Diaconate finds its roots.  Certainly the Permanent Diaconate is one of the most visible outcomes of Vatican II.  The acceptance of this ministry has been a bit spotty.  There are some dioceses in the world where they are not present.  But the USA, for the most part, has embraced the new restoration of the Order of Deacon enthusiastically.  Early training was a bit spotty as well but there is now a well-established program of study and liturgical training in most of the dioceses in this country.  One of the more controversial elements has been the study of admitting women to that order. A new study commission has been looking at the question.  More to be determined.

     I have given retreats for deacons and spouses all over the USA and have found both husband-deacons and wives to be zealous and faithful Catholics.  In some dioceses where there are few priests, deacons are serving as pastors of parishes. They are more than glorified altar boys!   Without them, I'm sure the complaint in the Acts of the Apostles would be heard about neglect when the situation is one of an overworked pastor trying to cover more than one parish!  Although the theology has not quite caught up with the pastoral work, there is no question about the usefulness of the vocation.  Keep your permanent deacons (and spouses) in your prayers.  AMEN