Dear Brothers,

As we reflect on this Sunday’s Gospel, we hear the Father’s command at the Transfiguration: “Listen to him!” (Luke 9:35). This is not just an instruction for Peter, James, and John but a call for all of us. St. John of the Cross reminds us that everything God wishes to reveal to humanity is found in Christ. In him, we have all we need, our faith, our mission, and our purpose. Our task as deacons is to fix our gaze on Jesus and lead others to do the same.

Yet, as we serve, we do not ignore the struggles among us. Several of our brothers are stricken with serious health battles, or have loved ones who are, carrying heavy crosses in their own journeys. We lift them up in prayer, knowing that Christ’s strength is made perfect in weakness. In suffering, they bear witness to the mystery of the Cross, reminding us that our ultimate hope is in the glory of the Resurrection.

Monsignor James Shea, in 'Religion of the Day', describes how Christ continually heals fallen humanity through his Church. The world is wounded by sin, and the Church, his Mystical Body, is the divine medicine. Yet, this healing is never without struggle. Christ himself faced rejection, and the saints who followed him; Athanasius, Augustine, Joan of Arc, Teresa of Avila, engaged in fierce battles for truth. The same is true today. We serve in a Church that is constantly being renewed, purified, and strengthened through conflict and conversion.

St. Thomas Aquinas explains that for a person to walk a difficult road, he must see the goal ahead: “Just as an archer will not shoot an arrow straight unless he first sees the target […]. This is particularly necessary if the road is hard and rough, the going heavy, and the end delightful” (Summa Theologiae, 3, 45, 1). Christ shows us the goal - his glory - so that we may endure the trials ahead.

As deacons, we are not bystanders. We are called to be faithful servants of Christ’s truth, not disheartened by opposition but emboldened by it. Whether in preaching, charity, or simply accompanying those in need, our ministry must always point back to Him. Let us listen to Christ, embrace our mission with courage, and never grow weary in the battle, for we serve the One who has already conquered.

AMDG

RECEIVE + BELIEVE + TEACH + PRACTICE

Be Bold + Be men of prayer + Pray for your Brothers +
See you in the Eucharist