(Acts 6:1–7; 1 Peter 2:4–9; John 14:1–12)
In today’s First Reading, the early Church faces a real and human challenge: some widows are being overlooked. There is tension, even complaint. Yet instead of allowing division to grow, the Apostles respond with wisdom, prayer, and action. They choose seven men “of good standing, full of the Holy Spirit and of wisdom” to serve the community—men who will later be known as the first deacons.
This moment is beautiful. It shows us that the Church is both spiritual and practical. The Apostles remain devoted to prayer and the preaching of the Word, while the deacons are ordained to serve—especially those in need. Together, they reveal the full life of the Church: Word, Sacrament, and Charity.
In the Second Reading, St. Peter reminds us that all of us are “a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation.” Every baptized person has a mission. Yet within this one Body, God calls some men to a particular, ordained service—like the deacons—who embody Christ the Servant in a unique and visible way.
In the Gospel, Jesus says: “I am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life.” Deacons are called to make this “way” visible through humble service—at the altar, in the Word, and especially in charity. They assist at the Eucharist, proclaim the Gospel, preach, baptize, witness marriages, and bring Christ’s love to the poor, the sick, and the forgotten.
Today, we echo the invitation of Archbishop Smith to the men of our Archdiocese:
Have you considered that God might be calling you to the diaconate?
Married or single, ordinary men are being called to an extraordinary grace—to serve Christ and His Church in a life of humility, charity, and Spirit-filled ministry. The Permanent Diaconate is not about status, but about service. It is a call to love as Christ loves: concretely, generously, and faithfully.
Let us pray for our deacons, for those in formation, and for those whom God is calling even now.
And may all of us, as living stones, build up the Church by offering our lives in loving service—following Jesus, who is the Way.
