Speaking with Deacons

In this final episode of "What Does God Want?", Dcn. Bob and Dcn. Mike discuss two more "c" words, "Confusion" and "Courage," and wrap up the series by offering practical advice on how to apply these principles in prayerful discernment.

The last two questions Fr. Mike proposes we need to answer in order to properly discern God will is, "How is it confirmed?" and "Does my heart say 'yes'?" That last one is also known as "conviction." 

Another tool for discernment is what Fr. Mike called "the consistency test." Is the manner in which you think God is calling you similar to the ways he has spoken to you before? There is often a pattern to the way God communicates with us, and understanding that pattern can help us more quickly identify the voice of God.

"Will this bring about conversion to God?" Our hearts are being constantly "converted" to many things, and our decisions can either draw us to God or away from Him. In this episode, Dcn. Bob and Dcn. Mike discuss how even "every-day" choices can lead to holiness.

In this episode, Deacons Bob and Mike discuss the first chapter of Fr. Scanlan's book, "What Does God Want?" The first question we should ask in discernment is, "Does this conform to God's will?"

What is the difference between a good idea and a "God" idea? For the next six episodes, Dcn. Bob Rice is joined by Dcn. Mike Welker as they discuss a book written by Fr. Michael Scanlan, TOR, "What Does God Want?" The book focuses on five key principles of discernment. In this episode, they talk about the importance of discernment and also talk about their experiences with the author of the book.

One year later, I reflect on how my life has changed since becoming a deacon. The Catechism of the Catholic Church talks about those a "sacred power" given to those who are ordained, and for deacons, it is a "power to serve." Over the past year, I have experienced that in many ways!

I got ordained! In this episode I share the experience of my ordination and reflect upon the beauty of that rite. My thanks and prayers to all who have supported me on this journey.

Dcn. Harold Burke-Sivers sharers his call to the diaconate and explains what it means for a deacon to embrace a life of serving others. 

Deacon Tom Fox, podcasting pioneer and deacon for almost two decades, shares with Bob some advice before Bob gets ordained (only five weeks away!).

There are many good historical reasons to think that St. Francis of Assisi was a deacon. But even if he wasn't, there are a lot of great spiritual reasons deacons should take him as an example! Dr. Alan Schreck, professor of Theology at Franciscan University and expert in Church history, shares some important "diaconal" qualities of St. Francis.

As we approach the 20th anniversary of 9/11, Dcn. Greg Kandra shares about how God used that moment to call him to the diaconate and a life of deeper prayer.

Fr. Dave Pivonka, TOR, shares how he prepares for his homilies so that his preaching might bring about conversion in the hearts of the listeners. 

Dcn. James Keating explains why a deacon must first be a man of prayer before he can be a man of service, and the difference between a man who is called to holiness and one who is called to the diaconate.

It was a joy to talk to Deacons Steve, Michael, and Vic Puscas as they shared how they heard the call to become deacons and gave some great advice for my own diaconal formation.

Dcn. Larry Oney talks about the untapped power of Baptism that many Catholics have but don't even know about!

Bob interviews Sr. Miriam Heidland, SOLT, in front of a live audience at the Priests, Deacons, and Seminarians Conference at Franciscan University of Steubenville about the importance of continually being healed by Jesus Christ. 

Renewing a parish isn't about changing what we do, but changing how we think. In this episode, Dcn. Keith Strohm shares five paradigms for parish renewal that are essential to move the Church from maintenance to mission.  Deacon Keith Strohm is the former Director of the Office for the New Evangelization and a deacon for the Archdiocese of Chicago. A well-known international and conference keynote speaker, he has helped tens of thousands of men and women hear the Gospel message and encounter the mercy, love and power of Jesus Christ. Deacon Keith has extensive experience in creating and sustaining processes and programs of evangelization and formation at the group, parish and diocesan level that focus on the making, maturation and missioning of disciples of Jesus Christ. He is the Executive Director of M3 Ministries and a long-time teacher and collaborator with the Catherine of Siena Institute. Find out more at http://m3catholic.com

Dcn. Larry Oney shares a powerful story of transformation, not only from an unbeliever into a baptized Catholic, but also becoming a permanent deacon!  Dcn. Larry is a permanent deacon for the Catholic Archdiocese of New Orleans serving at Divine Mercy Parish in Kenner, Louisiana. He lives in the New Orleans area with his wife Andi. Deacon Oney’s dynamic preaching style and message of hope has led to hundreds of speaking engagements across the globe; from Europe to Africa to Brazil to Canada and throughout the United States. Over thirty years of experience making critical business decisions while helping to awaken the faith of others has uniquely equipped Deacon Oney to present lively, invigorating, knowledgeable, and Spirit-filled presentations. Deacon Oney is the founder and president of Hope and Purpose Ministries. Find out more at http://hopeandpurpose.org

Deacon Keith Strohm shares how the Jesus brought him from darkness to light and called him to be His deacon. He is the former Director of the Office for the New Evangelization and a deacon for the Archdiocese of Chicago. A well-known international and conference keynote speaker, he has helped tens of thousands of men and women hear the Gospel message and encounter the mercy, love and power of Jesus Christ.  Dcn. Strohm is the Executive Director of M3 Ministries and a long-time teacher and collaborator with the Catherine of Siena Institute. Find out more about his ministry at http://m3catholic.com Watch the full video at: https://youtu.be/DVMdHXXrpvQ