THREE Kerry men have started training to become deacons in the Catholic Church. A programme for a permanent diaconate in the Kerry Diocese was announced a year ago, following approval from Rome for its introduction in Ireland. Three applicants – Conor Bradley, Milltown, Raymond Gilbourne, Millstreet, and Jean Yves Letanneur, Sneem – have now begun a first-year programme at the Dominican Ennismore Conference Centre, in Cork.
Deacons played an important part in the life of the church for the first five centuries. Gradually, the office was absorbed into the priesthood and the ministry of permanent deacons fell into disuse.
In 1964, the Second Vatican Council called for the restoration of the ministry as an enrichment of the life of the Church.
Since then, the role of the permanent deacon has been … Read the full article on Clerical Whispers.
Also on the Diocese of Kerry website
Congrats Raymond, Conor and Jean. See you all at the training.