Archdiocese of Denver

Archdiocese of Denver 2 Letter from the Archbishop My Brothers in Christ, The past year has been a difficult time for many people across this Archdiocese. COVID-19 has altered our lives and our behavior. Small businesses closed their doors and laid off wage earners. Retirement facilities, prisons, hospices, and hospitals closed their doors to visitors, while mortu- aries limited the number that could attend funeral liturgies. Parish Masses had to be adjusted to accommodate the fear of "socializing" and spreading a virus that we still don't understand, even today. Through the fear and turmoil of this past year, the Church has stepped forward with bold and innovative advances that helped address the needs of so many individuals caught up in mixed messages and contradictory government regulations. Social distancing and isolation led people into a deep depression and unprecedented anxiety. Web-streaming and zoom meetings be- came a part of a new daily vocabulary that allowed programs and Masses to continue, even if the parishes and meeting rooms were empty. But, God in his Providence provides for his Bride, the Church, and last year was no exception. Indeed, it was fortuitous that the first edition of the Deacon Ministry Manual was made available prior to the lock downs and restrictions. Ministry groups were actively working to figure out how to maneuver around the new mandates. It was a trumpet blast of evangelization and ministry for a new group of individuals victimized by the closures and isolation. There is a militant feel to the new programs that have surfaced through these trying times. Moved by the Holy Spirit, deacons, priests, and the faithful have stepped forward to create new avenues of evangelization and service. In a sense, this directory tells a story of victory! It's not just for those who need assistance; it is also for those who desire to answer God's will in their lives and provide help to others, such as the Faith in Action Ministry. At the same time, it an- swers our call to serve those in need, including those who have fallen away f rom the faith. From teaching children how to avoid predators, to responding to those who flee to evacuation centers, this manual provides a purpose for everyone sitting in the pews. I encourage every priest and deacon to take a good look at this new document. It is filled with apostolates that recognize the remedies for the people of today and sets the stage for hope in a world that has lost its way. That hope is Jesus! We have the spiritual weapons to help others find him! Fraternally yours in Christ, Most Rev. Samuel J. Aquila, S.T.L. Archbishop of Denver

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