The Center for Diaconal Formation of Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology is pleased to announce Called to Greater Love, a blog designed to serve wives of deacons and deacon candidates from around the world. Developed by our advisory committee of wives of deacons and the Center's assistant director, this unique blog is a resource for wives of deacons and deacon candidates. Through personal stories, inspirational messages, and suggested reading, our mission is to spiritually enrich and nourish wives while they accompany their husbands after Ordination to the diaconate or to encourage and support those who have just begun the journey of formation with their husbands. Visit us often and share your personal experiences with us so that, together, we can provide spiritual nourishment and support that spans the globe.

Meet Cathy Stevens, our primary blogger. Cathy was born and raised in the Catholic faith and has been married to Deacon Rick for 36 years. His ordination in May 2017, following years of intensive formation, has enriched her faith in countless ways, including the gift of befriending so many inspiring Catholic women along the way. They have a grown son and daughter, Matthew and Katie. Cathy is a nurse who manages clinical operations for a pharmaceutical company. In her free time, she enjoys freelancing for the Catholic Spirit, tutors ESL students, and serves at Saint Ann Parish in Raritan as an Extraordinary Minister and Lector. Cathy believes in working together for worthy causes by strengthening communication, collaboration and spiritual unity. Cathy also belongs to the Sgt. John Basilone Columbiettes and the Rosarian Altar Society at Saint Ann. As of early 2018, she is eagerly anticipating a new chapter of her life as a grandmother with the birth of her daughter Katie and husband Steve's first child.

The Center for Diaconal Formation recognizes the unique role of wives of deacons and deacon candidates. In collaboration with our advisory committee of wives from multiple dioceses, we offer opportunities to assist wives in their spiritual adventure. Programs are created that deepen their relationship with Christ, nurture the bonds of marriage, and allow friendships to grow among wives, forming inspiring communities of faith. Various events hosted at our Seton Hall University home have included Holy Hours for deacon couples, days of prayer and reflection, and retreats. For more information please visit us at www.shu.edu/wives.