The work of the Permanent Deacons with the Diocese of Venice is crucial to the functioning of the Parishes in which they serve, many in multiple capacities which are oftentimes behind the scenes.
“Thank you for what you do, day in and day out,” Bishop Frank J. Dewane said to a gathering of Permanent Deacons and their wives on March 15, 2025, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Venice. “You often don’t get the recognition you deserve for what you do in service for the Church.”
Bishop Dewane paraphrased Pope Francis’ Intervention to Deacons for the Jubilee Year 2025, offered in Rome on Feb. 24, by stressing that they be conscious of, and grow in the graces of the Lord. The Holy Father’s talk, in his absence, was presented Archbishop Rino Fisichella, made a strong proclamation on the concept of charity to the Deacons, the other was selfless service, and the last was on communion.
In his presentation on charity, the Holy Father said it must be a major part of a Deacon’s work, as it must be present and lived out.
Permanent Deacons are charged within their ministry to go to the margins, the periphery as Pope Francis calls it, and encourage more Deacons to become involved in work in the prisons, hospitals, and with the homebound and homeless.
“It is emphasizing how we reach out are to the periphery and be more committed to opening our lives, to be able to see the need and to show others that need,” Bishop Dewane said.
On the idea of selfless service, the Holy Father encourages Deacons to give of themselves and don’t watch for results and expect rewards. “Trust the Lord to work in His time.”
Deacons are called to be sculptors and painters, showing the merciful face of God to others, by creating the loving face of God in those they serve. This goes beyond their important work on the altar during the Mass as they serve as the bridge between the altar and the street.
“Part of the work of the Deacon is to be a sentinel, looking for those who need the Lord’s help,” Bishop Dewane said. “Communicate these needs to the faithful and encourage and promote a response from the faith community.”
Following his remarks, Bishop Dewane entertained questions from those present.
The initial questions focused on the Bishop’s upcoming retirement, which requires approval from Pope Francis, having reached the age of 75 on March 9.
“One day I will get a phone call that the Holy Father has accepted my resignation,” Bishop Dewane said. “Meanwhile, there is a lot of work to be done.”
Other questions focused on the growth and needs of the Diocese, including the increased need to minister to the expanding Hispanic-Catholic population. These issues are something Bishop Dewane said is an important aspect of his role as the leader of the Diocese, as he works to lay the groundwork for a sustainable future for the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Venice.
The Deacons were encouraged to hear that there is a large group who will be ordained to the Permanent Diaconate in late spring, several of whom are Spanish speakers. Another large class is on track to complete their formation in 2028.
“The future is bright, but if you know of someone interested, please put their name forward,” Bishop Dewane said.
Deacon David Reardon, Diocese of Venice Director of Diaconate Personnel, said the Deacons and their wives were extremely grateful to Bishop Dewane for sharing his time with them.
Many also thanked Bishop Dewane personally for his candor in answering the wide variety of questions which were presented and wished him a belated Happy 75th Birthday.
