New deacon formation class marks milestone

Intermountain Catholic

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IC photos by Christopher Gray

Students of the Diaconate Formation program of the Diocese of Salt Lake City gathered with their families Nov. 18 at the Cathedral of the Madeleine in Salt Lake City to celebrate the Rite of Candidacy, marking the beginning of the formal process that will lead toward ordination. Now in their second year of studies, the 22 men were reminded by Diocesan Administrator Msgr. J. Terrence Fitzgerald that, "Unfortunately, some deacons, some priests, some candidates even, can be tempted to think that ordination is an elevation to a grand position of honor; that people are to incense and genuflect in their recognition of us." Instead, he said, "Diaconate requires a very generous and humble service. Diaconate, like priesthood, is about Jesus Christ, his kingdom and his people, not about you, not about me." According to the Office of Diaconate Formation, this class of deacons is expected to be ordained in January, 2010. At left, Deacon Candidate Drew Petersen receives a blessing from Msgr. Fitzgerald. Below, Deacon Candidate Douglas Biediger processes out of the cathedral with his wife Virginia and their family.