The spirituality of permanent deacons in the context of the universal call to holiness

Abstract

The article considers the spirituality of permanent deacons in the context of the universal call to holiness. This spirituality has its source in the sacramental grace of the diaconate and is of great help to them in fulfilling their dedication to the service of the Kingdom of God and the Church after the example of Christ the Servant and in pursuit of personal holiness. The Second Vatican Council reminds us that all the faithful are called to holiness through baptism. Holiness finds an even greater motivation for deacons by virtue of the sacrament of order that they have received. The documents of the Magisterium, and in particular the Directory for the Ministry and Life of Permanent Deacons published by the Congregation for the Clergy, point out the means that deacons are to use in the continual deepening of their spiritual lives. Among the more important of these are: the faithful fulfilment of one’s diaconal duties, attention to the sacramental life, regular spiritual direction, attention to personal prayer and the Liturgy of the Hours, the observance of spiritual recollection and the practice of various forms of marian devotion. All permanent deacons should learn that time given to prayer and to the various forms of diaconal piety constitutes the most important and the most valuable of all one’s daily duties, since it helps to avoid any dualism between spirituality and the various diaconal tasks.