Location: St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, this is a moment of profound significance for our local Church, as these men – accompanied by their wives and families – dedicate their lives to the service of God and His people. As we reflect on the readings and the profound mission these men are about to undertake, we are reminded of the qualities and responsibilities of a prophet.
The first reading, from the Book of Jeremiah, presents us with a powerful example of prophetic vocation. Jeremiah, despite his initial reluctance and sense of inadequacy, was called by God to be a prophet to the nations. God reassures Jeremiah, making him note that it is God who entrusts his mission to the prophet. It is God who puts his own words in the prophet’s mouth, enabling him to move forward without fear.
This calling is not merely a task but a profound identity.
As deacons, you are called to be prophetic voices in our community. Your mission is to announce the truth without calculating the cost, to proclaim the comforting and challenging words of God, and to serve as visible signs of God’s love and justice. In a world where many prophetic voices are silenced by force or fear, you are called to stand firm, trusting that God is your protector and guide. Strengthened by the Holy Spirit, you are sent – as we prayed in the Responsorial Psalm – to “Proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations.”
The second reading, from the Acts of the Apostles, reminds us of the practical aspect of your ministry. The early Church, faced with the challenge of serving the needs of the community, appointed seven reputable men filled with the Holy Spirit and wisdom to serve. This delegation allowed the apostles to focus on prayer and the ministry of the word.
As deacons, you follow in the footsteps of these first servants of the Church, called to the ministry of the altar, of the word and of charity. You are to be filled with the Holy Spirit and wisdom, dedicating yourselves to the needs of the community, ensuring that no one is neglected.
In the Gospel of John, we hear Jesus’ prayer for his disciples. He talks about revealing the name of God to them, giving them his word, and that they will be rejected by the world because they do not belong to it. Jesus asks that they be protected. He consecrates himself so that they too may be consecrated in the truth. As deacons, you are consecrated in this same truth. You are sent into the world to transform it through your service, witness, and proclamation.
Pope Francis reminds us that “the prophet is the one who shows Jesus to others, who bears witness to him, who helps live today and build the future according to his designs.”
You are called to be this prophetic presence, showing Jesus to others through your actions, words, and your very being.
As we also celebrate today the Memorial of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, we remember her perfect discipleship and her unwavering trust in God’s plan. May the example of Mary – who meditated all things in her heart – inspire you to keep the word of God within you and to respond courageously to the call of the Lord: “May it be done to me according to your word.” (Lk 1:38).
Remember that it is God who has chosen you, who equips you and who sends you forth. Trust in his promise: “Have no fear before them, because I am with you to deliver you.” (Jer). May your trust in God conquer any fear or reluctance, and may His power enable you to withstand any challenge, proclaiming the truth with courage and love.
May Our Lady of Guadalupe help you to be brave prophets of our time, bearing witness to Christ and proclaiming His marvelous deeds.
