National Directory for the Formation, Ministry and Life of Permanent ...

22 Chapter 1there is an intrinsic unity in a deacon’s ministry. In preaching theword, he is involved in every kind of missionary outreach. In sanctifyingGod’s People through the liturgy, he infuses and elevates peoplewith new meaning and with a Christian worldview. In bringingChrist’s reign into every stratum of society, the deacon develops aChristian conscience among all people of good will, motivating theirservice and commitment to the sanctity of human life.IX. Concluding Reflection40. When one reflects upon the Order of Deacons, it is worthwhileto recall the words from the ordination ritual of deacons:Like those once chosen by the Apostles for the ministry of charity,you should be men of good reputation, filled with wisdomand the Holy Spirit. Firmly rooted and grounded in faith, youare to show yourselves chaste and beyond reproach before Godand man, as is proper for the ministers of Christ and the stewardsof God’s mysteries. Never allow yourselves to be turnedaway from the hope offered by the Gospel. Now you are notonly hearers of this Gospel but also its ministers. Holding themystery of faith with a clear conscience, express by your actionsthe Word of God which your lips proclaim, so that the Christianpeople, brought to life by the Spirit, may be a pure offeringaccepted by God. Then on the last day, when you go out tomeet the Lord you will be able to hear him say, “Well done,good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of your Lord.” 45