Brisbane Deacon Adam Walk says the Church calls permanent deacons from all corners of society – and that is their strength. Source: The Catholic Leader.
“In Brisbane, we have a very diverse group of deacons,” he said.
“We’re encouraged to use our gifts in ways that are meaningful and impactful. There’s no rigid structure saying you must do ministry in a particular way.
“It’s really about discerning what you’re called to do and making the most of your talents.”
He said permanent deacons might not always be identifiable as clergy, but “we’re out there in the world, and our lives and actions serve as a witness to our faith”.
Deacon Walk was recently appointed deputy director of diaconate formation for Brisbane, which he was excited for because he enjoyed and valued his own formation.
Ordination to the diaconate for married mature-age men has been operative in the archdiocese since 1994.
“We typically have around 10 people in formation at any given time, with new candidates joining and others being ordained,” Deacon Walk said.
“We also support other dioceses, such as Cairns, with their formation programs.
“Brisbane is one of the more active programs in Australia, and we’re always looking for ways to help and collaborate.”
Deacon Walk said the age and experience of the candidates was an asset for the Church, too.
“Most deacons come into the role after living and working in the world for many years,” he said.
“Many of us have families, and that brings a certain perspective.
“We’ve had to balance work, family, and faith, which gives us a deeper understanding of the struggles people face in their everyday lives.”
These conditions also meant permanent deacons were “necessarily embedded in the world in ways that priests might not be”.
“A lot of our ministry happens outside of the Church walls, in workplaces, homes, and communities,” he said.
“We serve as a bridge between the Church and the world, being present in professional and social spaces that might not typically interact with the Church.”
FULL STORY
Permanent deacons are flourishing in Brisbane, Deacon Walk says (By Joe Higgins, The Catholic Leader)
