September 24, 2025

By Deacon Garry Stevens
Diocesan Vocations Coordinator

When I think back on the path that led me to the diaconate, it wasn’t marked by one big moment or dramatic sign. It was more like a series of quiet nudges: gentle, faithful invitations from God. Most of those came through the parish priests who walked alongside me, prayed with me and believed in me long before I ever thought I might be called.

Growing up in the Diocese of Ogdensburg, I was blessed to be surrounded by priests who lived their vocation with humility, joy and a deep love for their people. They weren’t just celebrating Mass; they were spiritual fathers, mentors and steady companions. Their presence was never flashy, but it left a lasting impression.

I remember one priest who made it a point to greet everyone by name after Mass. It wasn’t just polite, it was pastoral. He knew our stories, our struggles and our joys. His homilies came from a place of prayer and lived experience, not just study. Watching him taught me something important: ministry isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being present.

Another priest had a quiet way of encouraging me. He saw something in me I hadn’t yet recognized – a desire to serve, a heart for the Church and maybe even a call. He never pushed, but he asked questions that stuck with me: “Have you ever thought about the diaconate?” “Do you think God might be inviting you to something more?” Those questions didn’t demand answers, but they opened a door.

Over time, I began to see the diaconate as a way to respond to the grace I’d received through these priests. Their example showed me ministry isn’t confined to the sanctuary; it reaches into hospital rooms, food pantries, funeral homes and family kitchens. A deacon, like a priest, is called to be a bridge between the Church and the world, a servant of the Word and of charity.

What moved me most was how these priests lived their vocation with joy, even when things were hard. I saw them bury parishioners they loved, counsel families in crisis and carry the weight of parish life with grace. And through it all, they remained faithful – not out of obligation but out of love, love for Christ, love for His people.

As I entered formation, I carried the witness of those priests with me. I thought often about how they listened, how they prayed, how they served. I realized the call to the diaconate wasn’t just about what I could do, it was about who I was becoming. It was a call to deeper communion with Christ and His Church.

Now, as a deacon, I try to live with that same pastoral heart. I try to be present to those who are hurting, to proclaim the Gospel with clarity and compassion and to serve with humility. I don’t always get it right, but I know I’m not alone. The same grace that sustained those priests sustains me. Their example still guides me. Ministry isn’t about being noticed; it’s about noticing others.

I’m especially grateful for the Diocese of Ogdensburg’s commitment to fostering vocations. It was through encouragement that I began to truly discern my call. The Church needs priests and deacons who are willing to say yes, not because we have all the answers, but because we trust the One who calls.

To the priests who walked with me: thank you. Your faithfulness lit the path I now walk. Your witness gave me courage. Your love for the Church helped me fall in love with her, too. I pray my ministry honors the legacy you’ve given me.

And to anyone discerning a call, whether to the priesthood, the diaconate or another form of service, know that God often speaks through the people around us. Pay attention to the quiet nudges, the gentle invitations and the faithful witnesses. Sometimes, the call doesn’t come in thunder; it comes in the voice of a priest who asks, “Have you ever considered…?”