Wood receives diaconate candidacy

     It is with great joy that we announce this weekend that Craig Wood of our parish has been accepted into “candidacy” to become a permanent deacon in the Diocese of Madison. 
     Craig has already completed two years of study through the Diocese of Lacrosse. He will complete two more years before receiving Holy Orders as a permanent deacon to serve in our diocese and at St. Bernard Parish. 
     In a beautiful ceremony on Sept. 3 at Holy Name Heights, Bishop Donald J. Hying conferred candidacy on Craig as he prepares to enter his third year.
     Permanent deacons can provide extremely valuable service in their parish, and I am delighted that Craig is pursuing this vocation. 
     Permanent deacons, like transitional deacons who are on the path to priestly ordination, can preside at baptisms, weddings outside of Mass, funeral services outside of Mass and cemetery committal services. 
     Deacons also work in pastoral care, religious education and other programing in the parish.
     Permanent deacons can be married. Craig’s wife, Jane, is very supportive of his discernment into the diaconate program. 
     As Craig completes his studies over the next two years, please keep him and Jane in your prayers. 
     Vocational decisions such as this are not easy, and the prayers of the parish community can be a sure sign of support and affirmation. 
     Congratulations and blessings to you Craig as you continue the journey, Fr. Brian