Are you being called? Diaconate Formation Information Meetings

“By ordination, particularly and officially committed to service, the deacon is to inspire, promote and help coordinate the service that the whole Church must undertake in imitation of Christ. He has a special responsibility to identify to the Church those who are in need and particularly those who are without power of voice at the margins of our society. Among such people, the deacon is to speak about Christ and to offer them the Church’s varied assistance. But in the Church, he is also to speak about the needy, to articulate their needs, and to inspire and mobilize the whole community’s response. He thus becomes a representative figure in whom the Church reaches out to the needy and the needy challenge the Church.”  (National Conference of Catholic Bishops: Permanent Deacons in the United States – Guidelines on Their Formation and Ministry – 1984 Revision, par 37) 

CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS
•    Practicing Catholic for 10 years or more.
•    Must have received the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, and be validly married by the Church, if applicable.
•    At least 33 years of age but not older than 60 years of age at the time of application.
•    Good physical and mental health.
•    Gainfully employed or otherwise financially secure.
•    Sufficient time to devote to the formation program.
•    Demonstrates leadership ability and calling to the social justice ministry of the Church.
•    If married, both oral and written support, endorsement and consent of his wife and family. His wife should be willing to participate in the formation process.
•    A commitment to celibacy is required of non-married candidates, as well as widowers.

Sessions on January 5, 2025 and January 26, 2025. Attend only one meeting. If married, wives are encouraged to attend.

For additional information contact, Diocesan Office of Clergy Services Cielo Barroso-Branco, 510-267-8356 [email protected].

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