Bishop Konderla announces leadership transition in the Diaconate Formation Program

September 18, 2017
Monday of the Twenty-Fourth Week of Ordinary Time
 
From: Most Rev. David A. Konderla,
Bishop of Tulsa & Eastern Oklahoma
 
To:       Deacons, Diaconate Candidates, Priests, &
            Chancery Personnel
 
Re:      The Diaconate Council
 
Memorandum
 
Owing all to the grace of God, the Diocese of Tulsa & Eastern Oklahoma is blessed with a growing body of deacons who, whether proclaiming the Gospel or caring for the marginalized, carry out their service with fidelity and excellence. For many years, Msgr. Patrick Brankin has directed the efforts of the Diaconate Formation Program, and, as the deacons of this diocese stand as witness, the Church in Eastern Oklahoma owes Msgr. Brankin an immense debt of gratitude for his good work.

  
           Msgr. Patrick Brankin

   
          Dcn. Kevin Sartorius                         Dcn. Greg Stice                        Dcn. Lamar Yarbrough

The time has now come, however, to use the talents and gifts of the deacons themselves to oversee the Diaconate Formation Program within the diocese by reestablishing the Diaconate Council. We anticipate elections to the Council will be held this October. To this end, I have appointed Dcn. Kevin Sartorius, Dcn. Greg Stice, and Dcn. Lamar Yarbrough to a steering committee with the purpose of coordinating the elections. I am happy to announce that I have also appointed Dcn. Yarbrough to serve a two-year term as the Chairman of the new Diaconate Council. I have confidence in the leadership of Dcn. Yarbrough and of all the deacons as we move to strengthen and support the diaconate in Eastern Oklahoma.
 
With the Diaconate Council on the horizon and with a deep appreciation for his years of service, I have relieved Msgr. Brankin of his role as Vicar of Deacons and as Director of the Diaconate Formation Program effective today. He has generously agreed to help coordinate the transition until the Diaconate Council takes charge of the Formation Program this November. Msgr. Brankin will continue to benefit our diocese by heading the diocesan deliverance ministry and assisting Bishop Slattery.