Dec. 21, 2025 | Inside the diaconate

The Archdiocese of Baltimore was among the first in the nation to ordain permanent deacons. Yet more than 50 years later, many Catholics still wonder how deacons serve the Church and what distinguishes their ministry.On this episode of Catholic Review Radio, George Matysek explores the diaconate from its apostolic origins to its modern-day expression. The program begins with Father Michael Foppiano, pastor of St. Mark in Fallston and director of the permanent diaconate for the Archdiocese of Baltimore, who addresses common misunderstandings about permanent and transitional deacons, explains their liturgical role at Mass and outlines the formation process for men discerning this vocation.Later in the program, listeners hear from Deacon Tim Maloney, a teacher at Archbishop Curley High School in Baltimore, who reflects on more than 16 years of ordained ministry, and Darron Woodus, pastoral associate and director of parish operations at Holy Family in Randallstown, who is currently in formation for the diaconate. Together, they share personal stories of discernment, theological studies at St. Mary’s Seminary in Roland Park and the realities of balancing ministry, marriage, family life and parish service.