"Society needs a church that is credible, that is representative of society and that is not afraid of getting its hands dirty. It needs to address the different realities faced by society today and be present throughout the joys and sorrow of the people. Appointing permanent deacons is hopefully one of many steps the church will take to re-connect with society," says Fr John Berry.
Last week, Archbishop Paul Cremona approved the ordination of permanent deacons, allowing laymen, including married ones, to celebrate marriages, baptisms and funerals. Fr Berry is part of a taskforce assigned to set out a plan for the implementation of permanent deacons in Malta.
The decision was announced during the general assembly on 10 October, but discussions within the diocese had started back in 2003. In other countries, permanent deacons were introduced back in the 1960s. "Malta has lagged behind," said Fr John, "and has continued to hold the mentality of a clerical church, in which everything surrounds the priest himself and those around him.
"The decision came in the wake of criticism in the media that the Maltese church is lacking leadership. Archbishop Paul Cremona may not be a leader and he may not be ambitious, but he has a vision of allowing the church to display its humane element," Fr John says. [This interview was conducted on 15 October, before yesterday's announcement that the Archbishop was stepping down.]
"This decision is not about the alleged leadership crises, it is rather a decision to address the realities of today. A permanent deacon, who is also a married man, can provide a more realistic version of the situations faced by families today. One cannot criticise the church for not being up to speed with such realities, because priests are cut off from society.
"The idea is not simply spreading the word of God, but building a community. We need to make the structure work. The church has a duty of service to the community, and permanent deacons will have a ministerial role in helping the church with its service."
"This contributes for a new model for the church, one which is more whole, more representative; one that welcomes everyone in it. People from all walks of life can contribute - not only by spreading God's word, but also by ensuring social justice.
"I only hope this is the first of other decisions to follow, allowing the church to be more present in people's lives. The church is still relevant today."
Inevitably, the decision was not welcomed by everyone within the church. Some feared that a deacon will somehow take the role of the priest. However, Fr John stresses that this is not about replacement, but about the church being inclusive, allowing people to become members and hold different roles.
Role of permanent deacons
Permanent deacons will report to the archbishop, allowing for both a centripetal and centrifugal force - a flow of communication toward the authoritative figures and back to the community. Deacons will be allowed to speak for the church. Vocation is crucial in such an appointment, given that it is a permanent one, hence the term, 'permanent' deacon. The deacon can conduct a baptism, wedding or funeral but cannot forgive sins in the sacrament of penance, offer mass, administer the sacrament of confirmation or confect the holy Eucharist.
The training programme is still being developed. It will not be necessary to have a background in theology to become a deacon. Training is based on four major pillars: the humane, the spiritual, the intellectual and the pastoral. A psychological screening ensures that the individual concerned is emotionally stable, has good judgment and is aware of people's needs. Secondly, the deacon is responsible for the spiritual well-being of the community and, thirdly, knowledge of the gospel and church teachings is required. Lastly, pastoral training ensures that the potential deacon knows how to be of service to the needs of the community. The training will take approximately three years.