About the Book
Embodied in Service, Emboldened by Grace: The Unbroken Thread of Diaconal Ministry is a timely and insightful work that reclaims the true identity and mission of the Catholic diaconate. In an age when the role of the deacon is often misunderstood-seen either as a "stepping stone" to the priesthood or a functional assistant in parish life-this book offers a theological, historical, and pastoral corrective rooted in Scripture, Tradition, and the Magisterium.
Deacon Wally Calabrese draws from the example of Christ the Servant, the witness of the early Church, and the teaching of the Second Vatican Council to affirm a bold truth: there is only one diaconate. Every ordained deacon-whether he remains in that order for life or is later ordained a priest or bishop-retains his diaconal identity forever. This permanent sacramental character unites the ministries of Word, Altar, and Charity into a single, integrated mission that flows directly from Christ Himself.
With a foreword by Deacon William T. Ditewig, Ph.D., a leading theologian of the diaconate, this book combines doctrinal clarity with practical guidance. It addresses common misconceptions, explores the lives of saintly deacons, examines the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy, and offers a vision for formation that equips deacons to serve with confidence and joy.
Embodied in Service, Emboldened by Grace is an invaluable resource for:
Ordained Deacons seeking renewal and deeper theological grounding.
Men in Formation and Discerners preparing to answer the call.
Seminarians, Priests, and Bishops who wish to integrate their diaconal foundation into every aspect of ministry.
Formation Directors, Catechists, and Lay Leaders committed to teaching and living authentic servant leadership.
From the sanctuary to the streets, from the proclamation of the Gospel to the service of the poor, this book challenges and inspires all who share in the Church's mission. In a world longing for authentic witness, it reminds us that the Church is most credible when she serves-and that every deacon is a living sign of Christ who "came not to be served, but to serve."
About the Author :
Deacon Wally Calabrese is a Catholic deacon, author, retreat leader, and speaker whose ministry is shaped by a lifetime of service to his country, community, and church. Ordained to the diaconate in 2010 for the Diocese of Raleigh, he has spent more than a decade proclaiming the Gospel, serving at the altar, and leading the people of God in works of charity. His approach to ministry is deeply pastoral and theologically grounded and marked by a personal conviction that the diaconate is not merely a function but a sacramental identity rooted in Christ the servant. Before entering ordained ministry, Deacon Calabrese served twenty years in the United States Marine Corps. His military career-spent in both domestic and overseas assignments-instilled in him discipline, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to mission. Those same virtues now infuse his diaconal service, particularly in his ministry to veterans, military families, and those stationed abroad.
In addition to his parish and diocesan work, Deacon Calabrese is a seasoned educator and leader. He has served in higher education as Dean of the Havelock Campus of Craven Community College, where he combined administrative leadership with a heart for student development and mentoring. His professional background also includes extensive experience in government contracting and strategic development, giving him a keen sense of organizational vision and project execution.
Deacon Calabrese is the author of "The Apostles and Me" and several catechetical booklets, including "Confirmed and Ready" and "Living a Catholic and Moral Life." His latest work, "Embodied in Service, Emboldened by Grace: The Unbroken Thread of Diaconal Ministry," reflects his deep love for the diaconate and his desire to strengthen its theological understanding within the church. With the endorsement and foreword of Deacon William T. Ditewig, Ph.D., this book is both a theological reflection and a pastoral tool for deacons, those in formation, and all who share in the Church's mission of service.
Married and a devoted family man, Deacon Calabrese credits his wife and family as integral to his vocation. He views the domestic church as the seedbed of diaconal ministry, believing that the witness of a deacon's marriage and family life is a living catechesis for the wider Church. His life and ministry continually reflect the balance of altar, word, and charity-each flowing from his relationship with Christ and his commitment to serving others.
Through his writing, speaking, and pastoral work, Deacon Wally Calabrese continues to call the Church to a renewed vision of diakonia-one that is faithful to Scripture, the Fathers, and the Magisterium and that meets the needs of a world longing for authentic servant leadership. Whether preaching in a parish, leading a retreat, visiting the sick, or writing for the wider Catholic community, he embodies the truth that greatness in the Church is found not in status, but in service.
