October 3 is the 800th anniversary of the death of the holy deacon, St Francis of Assisi — also called his Transitus, meaning his transition to eternal life. It was for this reason that Pope Leo XIV designated 2026 as a jubilee year in honor of this great saint. As Bishop, I wish to take this opportunity to thank all of the permanent deacons who generously advance Christ's mission in the Diocese of Saginaw. And I am also grateful for the spouses and family members who support them in their diaconal ministry. Many Catholics may not realize that their service as deacons is carried out entirely on a volunteer basis, without any monetary recompense. Please join me in praying for all of our deacons who, like St. Francis, are called to be living icons of Christ the Servant. -Bishop Robert Gruss