The Second Vatican Council restored the ministry of the permanent diaconate at the discretion of the National Conference of Bishops and with the approval of the local bishop.  Saint Cecilia Parish is the designated parish for the ministry of a number of permanent deacons.

The permanent deacon shares in the Sacrament of Holy Orders as a cleric in the church.  Following an extensive formation program, he visibly manifests the church’s presence in the larger community.  The deacon functions in the liturgical, educational, and charitable activities of the parish.  In his liturgical ministry, a deacon may proclaim the Gospel and give homilies, baptize, solemnize marriages, and preside at funeral services.