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Deacon formation a family affair
By Mary Moore, news@catholicsun.org
The Catholic Sun
GLENDALE — Twenty-one men and their families participated in a daylong seminar April 26 addressing the impact of the diaconate on family life.
The day is planned as part of the inquiry period for couples considering a vocation to the diaconate.
According to Deacon Keith Davis, associate director of formation, the day is intended to provide families skills to talk about the vocation, thereby helping the discernment process.
“We also wanted to give the family a better understanding of what this will mean for the family — what changes they can expect, what they might be able to get out of the formation process,” Deacon Davis said.
“It sets the stage, so to speak, that formation is about the entire family and that we expect the entire family to be involved in formation.”
While Deacon Davis said the discernment process never really ends, the primary movement of diaconate discernment lasts nearly two years.
“During this year, the Church takes a close look at the aspirant and the bishop makes the decision as to who will be admitted to candidacy for ordination,” he said.
He added that at this early stage in the men’s journey, the focus is on the journey rather than the destination.
“We really strive to make these events helpful, whether or not the men make it to ordination,” he said.
The family day at St. Thomas More is the second of its kind set up by the Formation Curriculum Board, which felt involving the family in discernment was an aspect that was lacking in formation previously.
Gail Curran, a member of the formation board, was instrumental in setting the day for aspirants’ families into motion.
“From past gatherings, wives have had questions and concerns regarding the formation process,” Curran said. “We want them to feel supported from the very first step of the journey.”
San Francisco de Asís parishioner Jenn Hartin, whose husband Jeff has begun the discernment process, enjoyed the day and was glad to be able to bring their two children along.
“It’s nice having the kids come. We have been trying to involve them in the discernment, and this is a great start.”
This will not be the only family event for these men. Each year during Candidacy begins with a three-day family retreat.
St. Helen parishioner Gary Chatel, who attended the event at St. Thomas More with his wife April and their three daughters, appreciated the Church’s family-centered approach to the discernment process.
“It says a lot for the Catholic Church and our diocese to do this today,” Chatel said. “They know it’s all about family, that’s the nucleus of the Church. The fact that they recognize that and set this day up as part of the process of discernment is terrific.”
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