New Friendship: The Spirituality and Ministry of the Deacon

What is a deacon? What does a deacon do? These are two questions pastors, parishioners and even deacons themselves ask.



In 'A New Friendship', Monsignor Edward Buelt answer these questions through an engaging conversation with the Scriptures, the eucharistic liturgy and church teaching on the diaconate. Originally given as a retreat for deacon candidates, 'A New Friendship' is now available to a larger audience of bishops, priests, deacons, deacons' wives and candidates for formation.



Buelt's treatment of all the major themes of the diaconate--the ministry of word, altar and charity, as well as communion, sacrifice, service and suffering--is inspirity and enriching. He highlights the meaning of the diaconate through insightful and moving reflections on the Scriptures and proposes practical lessons for a deacon's ministry at Mass.



Buelt offers sound counsel for the spiritual life of deacons in the voice of an attentive pastor of souls and as one who cares about the diaconate.



'A New Friendship' is must reading for anyone interested in the diaconate and in diaconal ministry.



MONSIGNOR EDWARD BELT was ordained to the priesthood in 1982. A noted liturgist and canon lawyer, he has exercised a variety of ministries in the Archdiocese of Denver and as an official of the Pontifical Council for the laity. In 1998 he was appointed the founding pastor of Our Lady of Loreto Parish in suburban Denver, where he continues to serve.



Monsignor Buelt's reflections help not only deacons, but the whole gathered assembly to more deeply appreciate this ministry of service. At once pastorally practical and spiritually nourishing, this book will help to highlight how the Deacon at the Liturgy and in parish life can lead us more deeply into the mystery of Christ’s love for us'.
Monsignor James P Moroney, Saint John's Seminary, Massachusetts