Project Stephen

“So the Twelve called together the community of the disciples and said, ‘It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at table.  Brothers, select from among you seven reputable men, filled with the Spirit and wisdom, whom we shall appoint to this task.’  They presented these men to the apostles who prayed and laid hands on them.  The Word of God continued to spread, and the number of the disciples in Jerusalem increased greatly.” (Acts 6:2-3; 6-7)

With these words and actions of the apostles, the first deacons were ordained to serve in word, liturgy, and charity to meet the spiritual needs of the faithful, especially those who were new disciples. The call to ordain men as deacons, set apart to serve the people of God under the direction of the local bishop, remains in today’s Church.

Project Stephen is an opportunity to walk with other men and their wives who are also discerning a deeper relationship with God and whether that includes answering God’s call through service as a deacon. Over the course of 8 sessions, attendees will have the opportunity to learn about who the deacon is and how he serves in word, liturgy, and charity; the history and development of the diaconate; and the four pillars of formation. In addition, one will discover how to discern well, with a focus on prayer as the way God communicates His life and makes His presence known in the soul.

While it is not a requirement to attend Project Stephen to apply for diaconate formation, it is strongly encouraged for a man to attend as many sessions as possible to aid him in his discernment. Since couples need to discern together, wives are strongly encouraged to attend Project Stephen.

Please find the schedule for Project Stephen below. For questions, please email [email protected].