Stages of Formation Initial and Ongoing Formation Diaconate

Stages of Formation: Initial and Ongoing Formation Diaconate Formation

First Stage: Vocational Discernment (2 years) • Recruitment/Inquiry • Participation in information sessions • Inquirer’s information • Discernment • Application for admission • Marital assessment • Personality Inventory Survey • Psychological evaluation • Interview with Coordinator of Admissions

First Stage: Vocational Discernment (2 years) • Selection • Admissions Committee reviews the application package and makes recommendation • ASPIRANT PATH OF FORMATION (ASPIRANCY) • Preparation for candidacy • In-depth study of the diaconate • Introduction to theology and Sacred Scripture • Formation of community

Second Stage: Formation for the Diaconate (4 years) • Candidacy for Holy Orders • Four-year curriculum of theological studies • Integrated liturgical, pastoral, and spiritual formation • Instituted Ministries • Lector • Acolyte

Second Stage: Formation for the Diaconate (4 years) • Marriage Enrichment • Spiritual and human formation for the wives • Enrichment of the marital bond • Admissions and Scrutinies Committee • Nominates and recommends to the diocesan bishop candidates for promotion to the Order of the Diaconate

Stage Three: Ongoing Formation • New deacons • Mandatory three-year post-ordination formation • Deacons • Ongoing formation and mentorship according to age and years of ordination and ministry • Wives and family • Ongoing pastoral formation and care