Discerning the Deaconate: Interview with Dcn James (Katies Dad!)

Send us Fan MailWe trade our usual studio feel for a family-farm recording with Deacon Dad and a very real background chorus of baby life, dogs, and interruptions. We dig into discernment, what a Catholic deacon actually does, and why saying yes often comes before you feel ready. • live-audience chaos and a quick family roll call • peaks and pits with newborn sleep and early mornings • praying the outdoor Stations of the Cross as a community • the first nudge toward the permanent diaconate • a Diocesan Youth Conference adoration moment that changed everything • what “deacon” means and how deacons serve alongside priests • why parishes can feel different while staying fully Catholic • Roman Rite structure and variety across languages and rites • why priests are usually celibate and why some are married • the vow permanent deacons take regarding celibacy after widowhood • capacity, humility, and “God help me” as a real prayer • deacon ministry as a couple and the hidden work of spouses • formation as a lifelong process shared with family and community • marriage meeting idiom quiz and the Chin-family phrase struggle An exclusive from Dery Media Podcasts. Explore diverse perspectives and enrich your knowledge at derymedia.com. Telling stories that matter, sparking meaningful discussions.