Deacon Blanke: ‘Not a long discernment’ before entering 2026 permanent diaconate class

Deacon Bill Blanke was among 16 men ordained to the permanent diaconate on August 8 at St. Benedict Cathedral in Evansville.

A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Blanke stated in an interview with The Message that he had not previously considered the permanent diaconate. He noted that a January 2022 conversation with Deacon Gary Keepes led him to consider the office. Blanke said he initially declined the opportunity because he was concerned about his work life balance and the impact on his wife.