As the number of disciples continued to grow, the Hellenists complained against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. So the Twelve called together the community of the disciples and said, “It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at table. Brothers, select from among you seven reputable men, filled with the Spirit and wisdom, whom we shall appoint to this task, whereas we shall devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” The proposal was acceptable to the whole community. (Acts 6:1-7)
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/043022.cfm
The creation of the Seven (referred to much later in church history as “deacons”) was to respond to a language problem in the early church between the Greek-speaking and Hebrew-speaking members. It is fascinating that those who are named as the Seven all have Greek names. Perhaps the church knows that to speak one’s language helps in spreading the gospel.
These reflections are a result of more than 40 years of ministry as a Roman Catholic priest. Most of these years I spent in the Diocese of Charlotte which covers Western North Carolina. Now I am retired, and live in Medellín, Colombia where I continue to serve as a priest in the Archdiocese of Medellín.
Saturday of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Easter, April 30
