The National Directory for the Formation, Ministry, and the Life of Permanent Deacons in the United States (Ascension)

NDPD

The Ministry and Life of Deacons

72

lifestyle, “so urgently needed in affluent and consumeristic societies,” 59 is its important witness in animating the diakonia of every Christian to serve “especially those who are poor or in any way afflicted.” 60 Pastoral Service 71 As St. John Paul II observes, “A deeply felt need in the decision to rees tablish the diaconate was and is that of a greater and more direct presence of Church ministers in the various spheres such as family, work, school, etc., in addition to existing pastoral structures.” 61 While transforming the world is the proper role of the laity, the deacon — in communion with his diocesan bishop and the diocesan presbyterate — exhorts, consecrates, and guides the People of God in living faithfully the communion and mission they share in Christ, especially in making the Gospel visible in their daily lives through their concern for justice, peace, and respect for life. 62 72 The majority of deacons in the United States of America are married. 63 These men bring to the Sacrament of Holy Orders the gifts already received and still being nurtured through their participation in the Sacrament of Matrimony. 64 This sacrament sanctifies the love of husbands and wives, making that love an efficacious sign of the love of Christ for his Church. Marriage requires an “interpersonal giving of self, a mutual fidelity, a source of [and openness to] new life, [and] a support in times of joy and sorrow.” 65 Lived in faith, this ministry within the domestic Church is a sign to the entire Church of the love of Christ. It forms the basis of the married deacon’s unique gift within the Church. 66 III. THE DEACON IN HIS STATE OF LIFE The Married Deacon

59 60

PDV, no. 30.

GS, no. 1.

61 St. John Paul II, General Audience “Deacons Serve the Kingdom of God” (October 5, 1993), no. 6. 62 ADUS. 63 NSD (1996) reports that 97 percent of all deacons in the United States are married (2). 64 See paragraph 178 in this text regarding those who are in a mixed marriage or a non-sacramental marriage. 65 DMLPD, no. 61. 66 DMLPD, no. 61.

39