The Diakonia - Fr. Gregory - April 19, 2026

This Sunday, as we celebrate Antipascha, the church gives us the story of Thomas. This story, Fr. Gregory explains, shows us something profound about what it means to touch the risen Lord.In the story, on the evening of the first Pascha, Christ appeared to the apostles in a room, but Thomas was not there. When he heard what had occurred, he said that he would not believe unless he saw and touched Christ himself. On the following Sunday, Christ appeared again, and Thomas was there. The Lord invited him to touch his body, permitting contact with what is most holy. This, Fr. Gregory suggests, is the theological foundation of the diaconate, as the deacon’s ministry is to handle the body of Christ.Fr. Gregory then delves deeper into the qualifications and role of a deacon. He also gives an overview of the ordination service for a deacon, which will be held at Holy Trinity + Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Cathedral on April 26 for the ordination of Keith Deason.