By Deacon Eric Gurash

In a celebration held on Sunday, June 11, at Holy Cross Parish in Regina, Archbishop Donald Bolen instituted Martin Kondzielewski, of Holy Trinity Parish, Regina, and Ken Fahlman of St. Joseph’s Parish, Balgonie, into the ministry of Acolyte. The ceremony marked an important milestone in their journey toward becoming permanent deacons within the Archdiocese of Regina.

Kondzielewski and Fahlman, accompanied by their wives, Marie and Diane, along with Paul Wheeler and Nicholas Blom from the Saskatoon Diocese, recently completed the fourth year of a five-year formation program for permanent deacons. This program, overseen by the Archdiocese of Regina, equips aspiring deacons with the necessary knowledge, spiritual growth, and pastoral training to serve their parishes and the wider community.

Upon successful completion of their formation and acceptance by Archbishop Bolen, Kondzielewski, and Fahlman anticipate their ordination as permanent deacons in 2024. They will join the group of twelve existing Permanent Deacons within the Archdiocese, expanding the Church’s capacity for service and ministry.

In responding to the celebration, Fahlman expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “I’m still on cloud nine and more excited than ever to continue this journey with the people God has put in my life to journey with on the road to the permanent diaconate.”

For Kondzielewski, the decision to pursue the diaconate was a transformative one. Reflecting on his journey, he remarked, “To apply to the diaconate program was to ask ‘am I willing to truly, deeply, lovingly become a disciple and put my all my life toward Christ?'”

The ministry of Acolyte, while often used to refer to various service duties at the altar during the Mass, has traditionally been maintained, along with that of Lector, as one of the minor orders one receives on the road to ordination as a priest or deacon.

During the Mass where the institution took place, Archbishop Bolen blessed the two men while each, in turn, held the chalice to be used at Mass; a symbol of the assistance an acolyte is called to provide priests and deacons at the altar. Kondzielewski fondly recalled the moment, saying, “It was the eye contact and smiles Bishop Don sent my way that I appreciated. I felt joy, yet calm. Peace yet a rumble of excitement for what is to come.”

Ken and Martin envision their ministry as acolytes and future permanent deacons as an opportunity to serve others, particularly the vulnerable and marginalized. Fahlman emphasized his passion for serving the needy, sharing, “I would love to serve the Church in helping the poor and those in need. Right now, I am doing my practicum at the General Hospital. I think there’s no greater honor than to be with someone who may have only a short time left in this world. Or chatting with someone who may be lonely, or praying with people and giving them Holy Communion.”

Kondzielewski highlighted the importance of introspection and growth on this spiritual journey. He encouraged others to discern their own paths, “Sit down more with Jesus. Listen much more. Ponder your previous path purposely—the path you have taken so far; look at what your gifts are.”

When asked about the significance of spousal support on this journey, Kondzielewski emphasized the importance of open communication within the family. He stated, “You must have the support of your spouse. You made that important vow to her first, and you must be secure in your family and your support of it. Long, open, and honest talks must follow. Pray together, hold each other, ask questions. You are part of a loving team, and the team has to be convinced and able to say yes!” a reminder of the role that a strong and supportive marital partnership plays in the life of those called to the diaconate.

As Kondzielewski, Fahlman, and their fellow aspirants near the conclusion of their formation program, the Archdiocese of Regina acknowledges their progress and looks forward to their eventual ordination as Permanent Deacons.  The Archdiocese as a whole is invited to continue to pray that, with their commitment to selfless service and their love for the Church, they may become dedicated ministers, extending the light of Christ to those in need and embodying the true spirit of discipleship.