Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, today we gather to witness and celebrate a significant step in the lives of these men, who are responding to a profound call – presumably to the Permanent Diaconate, as they are admitted into Candidacy. This is a moment of profound significance, not only for them, but for their families and our entire community of faith. This step signifies a response to a divine calling, echoing the words of the prophet Jeremiah: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I dedicated you.”
The same God who called you from the womb, and who endowed you with unique gifts, is the one who sees your hearts, calls you and empowers you to serve His Church in beautiful ways. Just as Jeremiah hesitated, you might also feel the weight of the call, questioning your readiness or worthiness.
Yet, the Lord’s response to Jeremiah is the same to you: “I am with you.” You have not chosen the call for yourselves. Today, you stand before us, not because you are perfect, but because you have heard the call of the Lord and have chosen to respond with a resounding “yes.”
Pope Francis reminds us that “The Lord always wants transparent dialogue, without hiding things, without dual intentions: ‘I am like this.’” Nathanael was a man in whom there is no duplicity, transparent in his faith and in his response to Jesus. In praising Nathanael, the Lord reminds us that God values authenticity and integrity in those He calls. Jesus knew Nathanael before they ever met, just as He knows each one of these men. He calls them to follow, not because they are perfect, but because they are transparent, willing to serve, and open to God’s grace.
The calling to the diaconate, like that of Nathanael, is a great ideal. It is a call to live a life of service, sacrifice, and deep communion with Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve.
The call to the diaconate is a radical upstream witness in our world. It is good to have great ideals, especially in the service of God’s people. These ideals will sustain you in moments of challenge and difficulty. But as you, dear candidates, embark on this path, remember that your calling is not just a personal journey but a mission for the whole Church.
As I celebrate 49 years of religious life today, I can attest that the journey of following Christ is one of joy, challenges, and constant renewal. It is a journey that requires trust in God’s grace and a willingness to be led by the Holy Spirit. God will equip you with all you need to fulfill your calling. And just as Jesus promised Nathanael, “You will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man,” so too will you witness the marvels of God’s grace in your ministry.
Let us “Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous deeds.” (Ps). Let us rejoice with Our Lady of Guadalupe and entrust to her your growth in the grace of your vocation.
