I want to focus our attention to the first reading (Acts 6:1-7) of this Sunday, the fifth Sunday of Easter. It starts with the positive note: “the disciples were increasing in number”. Along with the increase in number of disciples, the responsibilities and the workload also was increasing. At this time the leadership was basically provided by the Apostles. They were obviously finding it hard to balance between spiritual service and material service. The Hellenists complained about the discrepancy and neglect in serving their widows. The problem was evident but certainly not intended one. So, the Apostles call the community together to discuss and find a solution. They decide to appoint seven men of good standing, from among the community, suggested by the community and with the purpose of serving the community in taking car of temporal needs. These men were:

  1. To be selected by the people.
  2. To be men of good standing, filled by the Holy Spirit and wisdom.

The Apostles prayed over these seven men chosen by the community and appointed them to their tasks. Though the Christian community selected the Seven, they were commissioned by the apostles by praying and laying on of hands over them. The practice of laying hands on others was a gesture signifying commissioning and granting of authority (cf. 8:17-19; 13:3; 19:6; 1 Tim. 4:14; 5:22; Heb. 6:2). This resulted in Apostles having more time to look after the spiritual needs of the community and preach the word of God. Thus, the number of disciples was growing. These seven men were called the deacons. The word deacon is derived from the Greek word diákonos (διάκονος), which is a standard ancient Greek word meaning "servant", "waiting-man", "minister", or "messenger".

Call to be a deacon is a call to serve. Today let us be grateful to our deacons and pray for them. Let us also pray to God that he may provide many generous men who will dedicate their life to serve God and His people. 

This is also an opportunity to think of our own gifts and talents and decide the ways to use them for the good of the Church. Each of you has a gift or two or more. You are part of God’s plan and method.  He wants to use you, to be a part of His ministry to the world. We all form one family of Christ and each of us is a member of that Body. 

We also would like to congratulate seventy-four children from our parish who received Jesus for the first time in Holy Communion on 6 May 2023, and their parents. May Jesus stay with them always, guide and enlighten them and may these children ever seek to be with Jesus. A big thanks to all the teachers and volunteers who prepared these children for this day so beautifully. Thank you all.