: Nathanael - Lay Ministry :
When people questioned Jesus about His way of life, and where He lived, He said to them, "Come, follow me". Today, Christians are deeply moved by God to follow Christ in a special way. Like the apostles, these people do not totally abandon their roles as labourers in the secular world, but they join their activities with an added commitment to follow Jesus in the world and within His Church. They are called to minister in their daily lives in the same way that Jesus did, that is, to have a heart of love and to bring the Good News of the Father's love to others, both in word and in deed.
A Ministers' Formation Process
A formation process provides an opportunity for men and women to grow in the awareness of their baptismal vocation and to discern the form that their response might take in order to be faithful to the Father's plan for them.
This process begins by acknowledging the gifts of each person and aims at developing these so that they can be shared generously with others; in families, local communities, work places and parishes.
Who is a Minister?
He or she is a person who wants to live out his/her baptismal commitment. A minister is one who serves the needs of others in the name of Jesus, whether those needs are of the body or the spirit.
Who can Minister?
- One who has a deep sense of dedication to the church and a desire to serve
- One who is willing to give time and effort in the service of the People of God
- One who has the qualities of a good leader and has the support of the community
- One whose family is willing to consent to the time and effort required for ministry and service
What is Ministry?
Ministry is a vitally important service for the Christian community. It involves true responsibility, it is recognized by the local Church, and it is in harmony with other parish and diocesan ministries.
Initial Commitment
Although the Nathanael Process is three years long, the initial commitment is for one year.
Whenever possible, candidates and their spouses are encouraged to attend the weekend sessions together.
An Integrated Program
The Formation Process is designed to be incorporated into the everyday lives of the participants, married and single, men and women. Hence, it is an integrated process of spiritual, pastoral, and theological growth. The three year process is conducted on ten weekends each year from September to June, with March used as a live-in retreat weekend. The completion of this program is a prerequisite for the Permanent Diaconate Formation Program.
Cost of Process
Direct process costs will be borne by the diocese and the parish, on a shared basis. The candidates in the Formation Process will be responsible for their personal expenses and books, which is less than $100 per year.
How to Become Involved
Interested persons will be required to fill out an application form and to name suitable reference persons. A recommendation from the pastor in consultation with the pastoral council will also be required. All applicants accepted at the parish level will be interviewed by two members of the formation team.
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