By TARA CONNOLLY Staff writer
The Diocese of Allentown has invited more than 20 men to a time of aspirancy to discern a vocation to the permanent diaconate.
After a four-year break since 47 permanent deacons were ordained for the Diocese, the diaconate formation program has returned with the men becoming aspirants by entering a period of study, prayer and discernment.
Father Eugene Ritz, diocesan chancellor and director of the Office of the Permanent Diaconate Formation, said the aspirants will engage in six years of formation with anticipated ordination in 2024.
“Aspirancy is a time to discern the capability and readiness of the aspirant to be nominated to the Bishop for acceptance as a candidate. Candidates are expected to engage the four areas of formation, namely: human, spiritual, academic and pastoral,” he said.
“For those who are married, spouses are asked to participate in this discernment insofar as they provide written consent for their husband to continue at each stage.
“Practically speaking this includes bimonthly formation conferences on relevant issues; taking online courses in theology, catechesis and philosophy; beginning to meet with spiritual advisors; as well as pastoral assignments,” said Father Ritz.
According to Father Ritz, the new deacon class has been established because there are three orders within the Sacrament of Holy Orders. In addition, the new class has been established to assist with the pastoral needs of the Diocese through prayer, and one day baptizing and leading the faithful in prayer.
“Deacons are called to represent Christ the servant and take on the ministry of the word, sacrament and charity. They are expected to be close to both Christ and the community, and bring the needs of the people of God to the Church,” he said.
The candidates were selected through a rigorous application process by submitting a large application packet with detailed information, as well as a written questionnaire. They are also interviewed twice by the priest and deacon members of the Commission for Orders and Scrutinies.
“Following all the information they submit, the recommendations received and the interviews, the commission makes recommendations to the Bishop, who selects applicants for admission,” said Father Ritz.
He also said the newly formed class is a dedicated group of men who, together with their spouses, demonstrated both the capability to enter formation as well as dedication to the Church in various ways of service and ministry.
“They also evidenced the necessary characteristic of humility that is necessary to engage the process of formation for holy orders. Their future roles will include much service to parishes and ministries throughout the Diocese,” said Father Ritz.
Although permanent deacons are a huge asset to the Church in their roles in promoting charity, proclaiming and living the Word of God and as a sacramental minister, Bishop of Allentown Alfred Schlert said he hopes the men will grow in holiness and asks the faithful to continue to pray for more vocations to the priesthood.
“The candidates for the permanent diaconate represent a broad diversity of talent, employment, geographical area and culture. For this reason, I am confident that these men, supported by their families, will grow in holiness through prayer, study and mentoring,” he said.
“Since the permanent diaconate is not a remedy for the shortage of Diocesan priests, we all must continue to beg God to send us more men to serve our Diocese as priests.”
