Brothers,
As we approach our upcoming Convocation, we are reminded of our sacred call to renewal in sacrifice and ministry. The parable of the barren fig tree, illuminated by the wisdom of St. Josemaría Escrivá, speaks directly to our vocation as deacons. We are called to bear fruit, not in mere activity, but in the deep, spiritual transformation that flows from responding to God’s grace with generosity.

Our Lord, in His patience, waits for the fruit of holiness to appear in our lives. He is merciful, giving us time to cultivate the vineyard of our souls. But let us not mistake this mercy for complacency. The fig tree that remains barren faces judgment. As deacons, we must ask: Are we producing fruit worthy of our calling? Are we leading our people with hearts on fire, or have we settled into comfort and routine?

St. Josemaría warns against a lukewarm response to grace. He speaks of Christians who could do more but choose not to, who, out of fear or complacency, refuse the radical generosity to which God invites them. This is a sobering challenge. Have we truly surrendered to Christ’s call? Or have we allowed the burdens of ministry, family life or work to dull our sense of mission?

Our Convocation is a graced moment of renewal. It is a time to rediscover the joy and sacrifice of our diaconal service. To renew ourselves in prayer, in self-giving, and in the bold proclamation of the Gospel. The vineyard of the Lord needs laborers who are willing to cultivate the soil, prune what is lifeless, and nourish what is weak. This is our task.

The Christian life, as St. Josemaría reminds us, is a divine wonder. It promises joy and serenity, but only if we recognize the gift we have received and respond with unmeasured generosity. As deacons, we are not merely functionaries in the Church; we are living signs of Christ the Servant. Let us not count the cost but give ourselves entirely, trusting that God, in His mercy, will make our ministry fruitful.

May our Convocation be a new springtime of grace. May it strengthen our resolve to be true servants of Christ, bearing abundant fruit for His glory and the salvation of souls.

RECEIVE + BELIEVE + TEACH + PRACTICE

Be Bold + Be men of prayer + Pray for your Brothers +
See you in the Eucharist