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If you have been to a Mass when a Deacon was serving, you may have noticed something different. Before proclaiming the Gospel, the Deacon approaches the priest or Bishop, bows, and says quietly, “Your blessing, Father.” What’s going on here? Is the priest giving the Deacon his permission to proclaim the Gospel? Is it just a formality?

First of all, the Gospel is not just read, it is proclaimed. The Gospel is not just words on a page in a book; it is the living voice of Jesus Christ. Therefore, whoever is proclaiming it does so with the help of God’s grace. Because this task is so great and magnificent, the Deacon seeks a blessing. When the Gospel is proclaimed, the Deacon becomes the voice of the Word made flesh.

The blessing that the celebrant prays is a prayer of anointing. The celebrant prays: “May the Lord be in your heart and on your lips, that you may proclaim His Gospel worthily and well.” He is preparing the Deacon spiritually. The Deacon becomes a vessel to use his voice to proclaim the divine truth. The blessing that he receives calls down the Holy Spirit to fill him with fire and clarity. The Deacon does not speak on his own authority. He is sent by the Church. He is the herald of the Gospel. The blessing reminds everyone that the Gospel is not just a personal opinion. It is a message entrusted, received, and announced in faith.

So the next time you see the Deacon bow and ask for a blessing before proclaiming the Gospel, remember that he is not just reading, he is being sent. He is not just speaking, he is echoing Christ. He does not rely on himself; he relies on the Holy Spirit. And all are about to hear heaven speak.

By Deacon Dan De'Amelio

Deacon Dan was inspired to write this reflection after reading an article from Catholics Online School— a wonderful resource for any Catholic:
https://www.catholiconline.school/