Day 215: Deacons and the Diaconate (2025)

In this episode of the Catechism in a Year podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz expresses gratitude to listeners for their support through financial gifts and prayers, assuring them of his daily prayers in return. He then delves into day 215 of the podcast, covering paragraphs 1569 to 1576 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, focusing on the ordination of deacons, the celebration of the sacrament of Holy Orders, and who can confer this sacrament. Fr. Mike explains the role of deacons in assisting bishops and priests, particularly in the Eucharist and ministries of charity, and highlights the restoration of the permanent diaconate in the West. He emphasizes the importance of the ordination ceremony and the essential rite involving the laying on of hands by a bishop. Fr. Mike concludes by encouraging listeners to pray for current and future bishops, priests, and deacons, and acknowledges the gift of being part of the Church.