Our guest blogger is newly-ordained Deacon Rev Dave Burke who, here, recounts his first week's experience as a deacon.
As I pen this reflection, one week after ordination to the diaconate, I appreciate what an incredibly life-changing week it has been.
Since being ordained at St Paul's Basilica in Rome, I have had the privilege of exercising my diaconal ministry in a variety of places including St Peter's Basilica, at the Pontifical Beda College where I am a student and at the parish of Our Lady Help of Christians, Kentish Town for the weekend. These are all places which have influenced my vocational story, with the last being my home for a number of years and my base when I am back in the diocese.
Throughout this week, my first week as a deacon, I have been particularly humbled by the deluge of prayers and good wishes I have received from those whom I have met during this time. I have always known, even from day one of entering the seminary, that I am not alone in my journey of faith; I have always had companionship on the way and thanks be to God for that.
Nevertheless, I have been immensely struck by the words of encouragement and support from friends, parishioners and those whom I have only just met.
This first week has gone incredibly quickly and, looking at my diary, the next few months promise more aplenty, including a summer pastoral placement and a trip to Lourdes.
Please do keep me and all of our Westminster deacons and seminarians in your prayers as we journey forward in faith. And please pray for all those discerning a vocation to priesthood or religious life at this time.
