What is a
permanent deacon?
Deacons are ordained ministers within the Roman Catholic Church who perform various ministries in support of the Church, usually at a parish-level. Following the Second Vatican Council, the Permanent Diaconate was restored as an ordained ministry in the Church. In the United States, the Diaconate was restored in 1968 and has grown to almost 15,000 deacons with 2,500 men in formation to become deacons.
There are currently 45 permanent deacons serving in a large variety of ministries in the Diocese of Saint Cloud.
Deacons are best described in Paul’s first letter to Timothy:
“Deacons must be dignified, not deceitful, not addicted to drink, not greedy for sordid gain, holding fast to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. Moreover, they should be tested first; then, if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons… Deacons may be married only once and must manage their children and households well. Thus those who serve well as deacons gain good standing and much confidence in their faith in Christ Jesus.” (1 Timothy 3:8-13)
Who are the men answering the call to be a deacon?
A 45-year old man from rural Minnesota, married and the father of four helps out at the parish by distributing Holy Communion at weekend liturgies. He feels moved to serve the Church in a more committed way and is especially interested in assisting the poor, the immigrants and those in need.
A 52-year old attends a Cursillo, returns to his parish and volunteers to assist at mass as a lector. He helps the pastor in many useful ways and finds he enjoys talking about his faith with the Cathechumens and fallen away Catholics. He feels a strong call to give more of his time to the building of God’s kingdom.
A 40-year old man and his spouse of 18 years give freely of their spare time to help the pastor reach out to the young people of their parish. He sees great need for committed people to get involved. He feels called to provide more parish leadership.
Who are these men and what are they experiencing?
They may be men very much like you! Men who love God, love their faith and feel called to serve in a more committed way.
Requirements for
potential candidates
The requirements for the Program of Formation for Permanent Deacons are:
- You are 32 years of age or older at this time.
- You were baptized Catholic or have been received into the Church more than five years ago, and you continue to participate in the sacramental life of the Church.
- If you are married, your marriage is recognized in the Catholic Church.
- If you are married, your wife supports your vocation as a deacon.
- You are involved in your parish: by participating actively at liturgy, in parish-related groups, and/or by serving the poor.
- You are in good health.
- You have the ability to study at the Master’s degree level and are willing to participate in a program of formation. (An undergraduate degree is not necessarily required.)
Are you ready to take
the Next Step?
If interested in the possibility of becoming a candidate for the Permanent Diaconate:
- Take the idea to prayer.
- Discuss with your family the implications of diaconal service. Do they agree you should pursue candidacy for the Permanent Diaconate?
- Discuss the diaconate with your Pastor. Does he agree with you?
- Then contact the Director of the Diaconate, Diocese of Saint Cloud, to begin the formal application process.
To begin your journey . . . Contact
Office of Diaconate
Deacon Vern Schmitz
305 North 7th Avenue
Suite 100
St Cloud MN 56303 3633
320-203-0554
www.stclouddiocese.org
