Diaconate Formation Update

By DEACON JOHN HUST

As we begin the month of September, we are aware of schools and colleges beginning a new year; so it is with those from our diocese discerning the Lord’s call to the Diaconate for the Diocese of Winona-Rochester. Bishop Robert Barron has approved eight men to proceed with Year Two of Aspirancy in the formation process.

This cohort of men are Steve Breiter from Mapleton, Justin Carlin from Rochester, Tim Clements from Fairmont, Arlo Drees from Austin, Mark Engesser from Rose Creek, Tim Gossman from Chatfield, Joseph Mytych from Rochester and Brian Zogg from Albert Lea.

Classes begin in September and go through June. The men, their wives, and the presenters meet Friday evening and Saturday once a month. Some topics this year include scripture, dogmatic theology, philosophy, and introduction to canon law. The dimensions of diaconate formation are human, spiritual, intellectual and pastoral.

At the end of this year, the men will request to be accepted into the Candidate stage for the Diaconate Vocation. Candidacy is three years in length with evaluations each year. The Lord willing, these men will be ordained to the Order of Deacon at the end of the fifth year of formation. Please keep these men, their wives and their families in your prayers as they continue to discern their vocation to the Diaconate. Thank you.

Inquiry Phase Diaconate Program

If you are interested in finding out more about a Diaconate Vocation, we will begin the Inquiry phase in September of 2025, which will consist of informational meetings and discussion surrounding this vocation. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at: jhust@dowr. org. Have a blessed fall!