One Mission, Many Hands: Discipleship and Accompaniment in the Ministry of Charity
Living the diaconal call more fully by serving together, walking with others, and making Christ’s compassion tangible.
This retreat will offer both deacons and their wives an opportunity to reflect on how discipleship and the art of accompaniment shape the ministry of charity at the heart of the diaconate. In light of the Diocese of Crookston’s pastoral vision, we will explore how growing in the practice of accompaniment – with one another, with pastors, with parish leaders, and with those we serve – strengthens the Church’s witness and extends the reach of its mission. Through prayer, shared learning, and practical conversation, we will consider how intentional discipleship and authentic accompaniment can help fulfill our diocesan call to move from maintenance to mission: bringing Christ’s tender compassion to the margins, drawing the lost into His Church, and fostering new life in our parishes and communities.
In Step with the Spirit: Humble Obedience and the Art of Accompaniment
Discover the freedom and fruitfulness that comes from walking in rhythm with the Holy Spirit, side-by-side with those Jesus loves.
Accompaniment begins not with our own wisdom or agenda but with a willingness to be led. In the ministry of the diaconate, walking in step with the Spirit means listening closely for the voice of the Good Shepherd and allowing His will, not our preferences, to guide our pace, our words, and our presence. This retreat will explore how humility keeps our focus on Christ and how obedience to His promptings frees us to meet others exactly where they are. Together, we will reflect on practical ways to cultivate this posture of heart so that our accompaniment is more than a ministry skill; it is the overflow of a life surrendered to the Spirit’s leading.
In today’s world, Catholic schools are called to be more than places of education - they are communities rooted in mission and identity, where every staff member shares in the work of evangelization.
In this inservice with the Newman Catholic Schools staff, we’ll explore how knowing and telling our own faith story can strengthen our sense of purpose, bring clarity to our mission, and help us witness to the Gospel in ways that connect with the hearts of students and families.
