Jake Belanger Begins Final Year of Priestly Formation
Being a transitional deacon has been an incredible gift from God and one of the greatest blessings of my life. Unlike a permanent deacon, a transitional deacon is the final step of preparation for ordination to the priesthood. This period of ministry provides valuable pastoral experience before priestly ordination. God willing, I will be ordained next year.
As a transitional deacon, I have the opportunity to participate in many aspects of parish life, from assisting at weddings and celebrating baptisms, to presiding at funeral services, preaching the Gospel and assisting the priest during the liturgy. These responsibilities have allowed me to grow both spiritually and pastorally while serving the people of God.
I have truly enjoyed this time in my life. After seven years in seminary, I am now entering my eighth and final year of formation. Being ordained a deacon has been a tremendous blessing because it offers a unique opportunity to serve the Church while preparing for the responsibilities of priesthood.
This summer, I served at St. Francis Xavier Parish in Petoskey, where I have had the privilege of assisting at Benediction and participating in many aspects of parish ministry. My time there has been a wonderful experience, and I am grateful for the many graces God continues to provide each day.
Throughout my years of formation, academics have often been a challenge for me. Yet through my ordination to the diaconate, God has given me many graces that have strengthened and encouraged me. In particular, he has given me greater confidence in preaching, which has become one of my favorite aspects of being a deacon. I also cherish the opportunity to be so close to Our Lord, especially during exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction.
My parents have been incredibly supportive throughout this journey and are excited about my vocation. As I look ahead to priestly ordination, I am filled with gratitude for God's faithfulness and guidance. I praise God for calling me to this vocation and for the many blessings he continues to pour into my life along the way.
