PRESS RELEASE
29 November 2009
Launch of the Permanent Diaconate in the Diocese of Kilmore
A permanent deacon is primarily involved in works of charity and service, in promoting awareness of the social teaching of the church and facilitating the development of lay ministry in the parish. Deacons are also able to proclaim the gospel and preach the homily at Sunday Mass, assist at the altar, perform baptisms, preside at weddings and funeral services and be involved in the ongoing evangelisation that is an essential element of parish life in modern Ireland.
Most deacons work in ordinary full-time jobs and they help the people and priests of the parish in their spare time. Those who wish to be deacons must be aged between 35 and 60 at the start of their programme of formation. The deacon must work as part of a team and acknowledge and respect the contribution of others from a position of equality. Deacons will be ordained to work alongside priests and lay ministers not to replace them.
Further information:
Fr. Gabriel Kelly, email: [email protected], tel: (048)66348250